Posted on: 25.04.2025
Over the coming weeks, we’re shining the spotlight on the people behind the profiles who make that possible. Today, we’re speaking to Daisy Hughes, Head of Digital Communications & Marketing.
Daisy brings nearly a decade of recruitment experience to her role at Hanson Search, where she leads the digital communications and digital marketing division. Having built the digital desk from scratch, she’s now a trusted recruitment partner to top PR agencies and global brands, specialising in placing CSOs, Heads of Digital, and senior leaders within digital teams.
Her career spans work with FTSE 100 companies, global blue-chip firms, and fast-growing start-ups – all with the shared goal of connecting leading digital talent with forward-thinking businesses. Before joining Hanson Search, Daisy spent five years in business support recruitment, gaining a broad understanding of multiple industries.
How long have you been at Hanson Search?
I’ve been with Hanson for three and a half years now. I specialise in digital communications and digital marketing, which is such a fast-evolving, high-impact area. There’s always something new to learn or explore, for me and our clients.
Since joining Hanson Search, I’ve seen the digital landscape shift dramatically, especially post-pandemic and with the rise of AI. It means every day is a bit different, and skills demand is always evolving, so you’ve got to be quick, which I like.
And what does your role involve, typically?
At its core, my role is about building strong, long-term relationships with clients who are looking for standout talent and candidates ready for their next challenge.
I spend a lot of my day in conversation – whether that’s catching up with clients to understand a brief, helping candidates prep for interviews, or advising senior leaders on building out their digital teams. I also lead on hosting industry events that bring digital leaders together to share insight and discuss emerging trends – which is something I really enjoy.
No two days are the same, but whether I’m reviewing CVs, matching candidates with new roles, or coaching someone through a career move, I’m always working towards one goal: making the right connection at the right time.
What’s happening in your market right now? What challenges are you seeing?
As I said, the digital communications market is always evolving, but we’re currently seeing an interesting shift. AI is becoming an essential part of digital strategies, and while the talent pool is vast, there are more candidates than open roles right now.
Hiring momentum has slowed slightly – teams aren’t expanding at the rate they were a couple of years ago, but, that doesn’t mean things have stopped completely. We’re also seeing a lot of clients trying to hire internally first, which can be a time-consuming process.
How do you support your clients?
Our job is to try to help clients hire quickly, efficiently, and in a way that’s win-win, so they don’t miss out on any strong candidates.
What makes us worth it is our deep sector focus – I focus purely on digital communications and digital marketing. That gives us a clear advantage, because we’re not generalists trying to cover everything. We understand the nuances of this market and have long-standing relationships with top talent.
This means I can move fast, advise on strategy, and present clients with candidates who aren’t just a fit on paper – but aligned in terms of culture, goals, and ambition.
What’s your favourite thing about working at Hanson?
Honestly, it’s the people. I get to meet incredible individuals in this industry and play a part in helping them shape their careers – it’s hugely rewarding. And I work alongside a brilliant, supportive team of experts who I learn from every day.
What’s one piece of advice you’d give candidates looking for their next role right now?
Have the conversation. So many candidates hesitate – they’re unsure whether it’s the right time or whether the role is the right fit. But you don’t know until you explore the opportunity. I’ve seen people go into an initial chat with low expectations and come away excited, accepted, and starting a new chapter.
Also, make the most of us as recruiters – we know the market, we know what clients are looking for, and we can help you stand out.
And what’s one piece of advice you’d give businesses hiring in your market right now?
Move quickly. There’s fantastic talent on the market right now, but they won’t be around for long. If you meet someone great, don’t wait – act. The businesses that secure the best people are the ones that are decisive, clear on what they want, and proactive in making it happen.
To find out how I could support your digital talent strategy, get in touch.
enquiries@hansonsearch.com