Ms. Emma McDonnell

biography

Emma McDonnell graduated from Warwick University in1991 with a BSc Hons (2:1) in Sociology. She then joined QA Training, a technology training company based in Cirencester, Gloucestershire, where she ran the OS/2 Users Group and was Assistant Editor on OS/2 Pointers Magazine (OS/2 was IBM’s competitor to Microsoft Windows).

After three years with QA, Emma decided to pursue a career that would enable her to use her language skills, and she joined Realm Holdings in 1996 as an International Researcher.

During this time, Emma worked extensively on campaigns in Eastern and mainland Europe, focussing on fmcg and clients such as PepsiCo, P Z Cussons and Wedel. She also developed expertise in the consultancy market, searching on behalf of (as were) Andersen Consulting’s supply chain strategy practice. With an excellent grounding in search techniques, Emma was promoted to the role of consultant in 1997 where she played a key role in establishing Highfield’s executive search practice.

Since 1997 Emma has managed the research function (The Knowledge Centre) and has both won and delivered executive search assignments across a varied marketplace. Now a Director of the business, Emma has a strong focus on telecommunications, utilities and fmcg and delivers board level assignments.

Emma intends to continue to build on Highfield’s excellent track record within Executive Search, ensuring that the business maintains its reputation for success and excellence.