She joins the firm from pharma research agency Genactis, where she was global head of the qualitative research centre of excellence. She previously held consulting roles at Frost & Sullivan and HBS Consulting.

Lewington (pictured) has also worked on several public sector projects for the National Health Service (NHS), including a major study on pain assessment in children.

Kadence’s UK managing director, Kieron Mathews, said: “Rachel has delivered and managed some outstanding and highly regarded projects within the healthcare sector. Her abilities and relationships are incredibly impressive, and we are delighted that she has chosen to join the team.”