Manchester-based independent SEO agency Search Theory has announced a wave of new hires in Digital PR and Tech SEO just months after opening its doors.
Launched by David Vernon and Sara Kavanagh in April 2026, the hiring announcements come after the agency secured a raft of new clients with some successful pitches over the first few months of operations.
The agency has now appointed Samantha Cobden as Head of Digital PR, Travis Robbins as SEO and Experiences Manager and Henry Reeves as a new Marketing Apprentice.
With over 9+ years of experience across the industry Sam will head up the agency’s Digital PR offering, working directly with clients to secure coverage across a wealth of relevant websites and publications.
Sam has built up a varied client list in the realm of Digital PR. She has worked with a wealth of brands across a wide array of industries and sectors, including construction, care homes and private education to interiors, fitness and outdoor lifestyle.
Sam notes:
“I am stoked to join the Search Theory team and to help build the Digital PR service. David and Sara have worked tirelessly to create an agency that isn’t afraid to be curious and go against the grain in a way that puts clients’ success first. I think that is an essential aspect for any agency and I can’t wait to see what we can build together.”
Travis joins the team in a hybrid role as SEO and Experiences Manager, Leveraging his wealth of experience in Tech SEO and UI/UX design, he will work with clients to ensure that their organic search strategy and digital user experience creates engaging, accessible and high-conversion customer journeys.
Travis adds:
“It’s time to take the world of search to the next level. I’m super excited to be joining David, Sara and the rest of the team at Search Theory, and I’m looking forward to helping them shake the industry up.”
Henry also joins the team as a Junior Marketing Executive. He will work across a range of clients, assisting all departments to build his skillset and complete his apprenticeship.
On joining the team, Henry notes:
“I am very excited to be joining Search Theory and continuing my apprenticeship journey. I’m looking forward to learning more about different areas of marketing and developing my skills in content SEO and blog writing, whilst gaining experience working in a really exciting team.”
(Managing Director of Search Theory Sara Kavanagh says that the agency will continue to build up its team in the coming months.)
Sara Kavanagh, co-founder of Search Theory, said: “The appointments of Sam, Travis and Henry mark a hugely exciting period for our agency as we continue to grow our team and expand our offering.
Each new team member brings significant strengths with them. Having worked with and known Sam for years now, I can’t think of a better person to bring PR campaigns to life for our brands. And Travis’ ability to blend Tech SEO and UI/UX design is exactly what we want to take our clients to the next level.
We’re equally delighted to bring Henry on board. Experience can be an absolute game-changer for young people trying to get a foothold in the industry today. We’re looking forward to supporting him as he develops his skills and begins his career in digital marketing.
It’s been an incredible first few months for the agency, and these appointments are another important step in building a team that shares our passion for doing great work and delivering meaningful results for our clients.”
