Higginson Strategy has created a research division to meet the growing demand for high-quality analysis.

Former journalist Liz Gyekye has been hired as head of research to run the new department which has already started work on three white papers for clients.

Gyekye brings more than ten years of experience working on environmental trade titles including Packaging News, Ends Europe and Materials Recycling World. Her specialisms include resource management and the circular economy.

Gyekye will be responsible for covering a broad remit of research for Higginson’s clients, but will have a specific focus on the company’s 'Real Circularity Coalition' and 'Nature 2030' campaigns.

John Higginson, agency co-founder and partner, says, “There is a hunger for meaningful research. Over the past year, we have found that our clients have been looking to produce more robust, transparent data to understand their landscapes and back their communication messages.

“The introduction of this new dedicated division will play an important role in enhancing our research offerings to our clients in order for them to create more memorable campaigns and provide depth to their arguments.

Founded in February 2017 by former lobby journalists John and Clodagh Higginson, Higginson Strategy aims to use to use communications to change the world for the better.

Gyekye is one of two new hires at the agency this month bringing the team to 14.

Clients include Ball Corporation, Unilever and Castleforge Partners alongside NGOs and charities such as A Plastic Planet and Plastic Soup Foundation.