Our story
Once upon a time,
over a glass of wine
Having spent much of their careers in the recruitment world, Evelina Samuels and Sarah Donegan knew two things to be true.
One, the recruitment industry with its impersonal, quantity-over-quality approach — desperately needed reinvention. Two, the specialist work of People & Talent professionals often goes under acknowledged and under appreciated.
Improving both would require a different kind of approach. Hatching their plans one night over a glass of wine, Samuels Donegan was born.
Today, we’ve built a reputation for our hard work and good humour, as well as mutually admired client partnerships and community connections. The backbone of it all? A seasoned team of vibrant and dedicated specialists with a wealth of experience and deep connections in the people, culture, and talent spheres.
Our unwavering commitment is connecting the best talent with the finest brands, all delivered with the signature S/D touch.
Our purpose
Hiring talent,
the human way.
We’re cheerleaders for the People, Culture & Talent discipline. We come from that world, so we know and understand its potential to shape the experience and enjoyment of work.
Fearlessly ethical and unabashedly personal, we don’t just recruit — we advise, find, cultivate, and connect talented people with culture driven organisations, so that together they can create fulfilling careers and competitive success.
It’s an approach that shouldn’t be revolutionary, but it is.
Meet the team
Evelina Samuels
Managing Director
Known for her genuine care and commitment. Evelina is meticulous in her approach and prides herself on forging lasting relationships with impactful outcomes. Read about Evelina.
Sarah Donegan
Managing Director
Sarah has crafted a reputation based on her fearless advisory and knowledge of the factors that drive culture and organisational performance. Read about Sarah.
Chloe Field
Chief Talent Officer
An innovator and thought leader, Chloe is a master of tapping into the heart of an organisation and helping bring its vision to life through its people. Read about Chloe.
Albert Samuels
Head of Creative
Albert has over 20 years of experience across multiple creative and digital platforms. He has helped launch, relaunch and elevate brands. Read about Albert.
Claudia Swinton
Lead Talent Partner
A bright mind with big ambitions, Claudia relentlessly pursues a higher standard for the recruitment industry. Read about Claudia.
Sally Leo
Associate Talent Partner
Sally is passionate about helping individuals discover their true potential and find fulfilling roles where they can be their authentic selves. Read about Sally.
Elza Jenkins
Marketing & Ops Coordinator
Elza is our marketing prowess who has an eye for detail. She is an anchor of calm and clarity — which is what you want from the person who is running marketing and supporting our operations. Read about Elza.