Leadership Solutions
for a Changing World
We match transformative leaders with high-impact
roles.
We Work With
Higher Education
Institutions
Edtech &
Commercial
Providers
Think Tanks &
Research
Organisations
Networked’s Successful Appointments
Chair of BoardChief ExecutiveVice-ChancellorManaging DirectorChief Operating OfficerDirector of BusinessDevelopment and Knowledge
Exchange
Director of People andOrganisational Effectiveness
Deputy Vice-Chancellor AcademicDean of Law SchoolDean of Business SchoolPro Vice-ChancellorBusiness and Law
Pro Vice-Chancellor Engineeringand Physical Sciences
Pro Vice-ChancellorEducation
Head of Academic QualityDirector of Research Services Science DirectorInstitute DirectorDean of Research andKnowledge Exchange
Chief Information OfficerFinance DirectorInsights
Our Principles
Why Networked
We Are Leaders in Global Education
Unlike generalist search firms, we exclusively advise the global education sector. This ensures unparalleled domain expertise and up-to-date networks of the highest quality.
We Don’t Delegate Our Searches
Each search is entirely managed and delivered by your principal consultant with zero delegation. You and the candidates interact only with seasoned experts.
We Are Your Champions
Our primary task is to champion our clients to the best candidates. We do things differently, fostering meaningful interactions instead of delivering unclear criteria, opaque processes and a lack of advocacy.
We Don’t Just Tick Boxes
We don’t just place leaders—we strive to make an impact. We look beyond standard requirements, testing carefully candidates' values, empathy and resilience.
We Celebrate Diversity
Thoughtfulness can be abandoned in search of an outcome. We seek to avoid decision makers being drawn only to the safest choices of candidates.
Who Are Networked’s People?
FOUNDING PARTNER
Hamish Laing
For over 15 years, Hamish Laing has led successful leadership searches across the global education sector. His approach combines innovative thinking with proven strategies, building on a powerful and carefully nurtured international network. Known for his strategic insight, clarity, and momentum, Hamish is trusted by educational leaders and organisations for his considered advice and discretion.
FOUNDING PARTNER
Rajay Naik
Rajay Naik is a seasoned executive in education and technology with a rich background in leadership and innovation. His expertise spans across strategic development in higher education and lifelong learning. His former roles including Global CCO of Study Group and CEO of Keypath Education Europe and founder of the FutureLearn MOOC platform showcase his commitment to evolving educational landscapes.
Jobs
Announcements
We are delighted to announce the appointment of Professor Simon Ofield-Kerr as the next Chair of Mountview, succeeding Dame Rosemary Squire who stepped down at the end of her three-year term.
The UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH) is pleased to announce Kathryn Brown OBE as its new science director, strengthening its leadership team as it continues to deliver science-based solutions that help people and nature thrive alongside each other.
With extensive leadership experience, most recently as the Chief Executive of Unite Students, Richard’s appointment signals the University’s continued optimism, ambition, and confidence in its ability to deliver transformational education and opportunities in a fast-changing higher education landscape.
International homeschooling college, Wolsey Hall Oxford, is pleased to announce the appointment of its new Principal, Mr. Gavin McLean. The organisation would also like to take this opportunity to express its deep gratitude and bid a fond farewell to the outgoing Principal, Mr. Lee Wilcock.
We Often Are Asked
What do you look for in leadership candidates?
In an era that prioritises empathetic leadership, authenticity and values-led decision making, it is essential that these key criteria are tested all the way through an appointment process. Our searches prioritise personal attributes, culture fit and mindset, alongside professional skills and successes.
How do you guarantee diverse candidate lists?
Inclusivity is integral to Networked’s processes, particularly when a shortlist emerges. We actively work to prevent decision makers being drawn only to the safest choices. Collaborating closely with clients, we implement a range of actions to ensure a steadfast commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion is embedded in all our processes from beginning to end.
How do you attract the best candidates?
The most important part of our role is advocacy. Storytelling is at the heart of all our processes. We value transparency and build this into the stories we tell. Networked will develop in partnership with you a candidate proposition based on the story that will be told when the appointed candidate is successful in post.
What part does technology play in how you work?
The exponential development of communications tools in recent years had transformed how all of us live and work. We embrace the role technology plays in enabling us to offer our clients high quality outcomes and exceptional value. Specifically, it enables us to adhere to our pledges around pace and attentiveness.
What is the cost of your services?
Our terms and conditions are specific to each project we undertake, reflecting our principles and the specific needs of the assignment. We ask to be held to account on quality, pace, attentiveness and attention to detail. We understand the critical nature of leadership appointments and commit to honour each process with the appropriate level of resource.
What can go wrong?
The most rewarding aspect of headhunting is the human engagement, but humans are unpredictable. This means leadership search is as much of an art as it is a science. To mitigate potential challenges, we maintain consistent communication with clients and candidates, all of which will be undertaken by your lead consultant. This approach ensures transparency and minimises unwelcome surprises throughout the process.
Ready to Start
Your Search with Networked?
