Scarlett Allen-Horton

Scarlett Allen-Horton is a multi-award-winning recruitment entrepreneur, BBC Apprentice finalist, and founder of Harper Fox Partners, recognised for her expertise in executive search, leadership development, and equality, diversity and inclusion. As a business partner to Lord Sugar and board advisor, she has scaled her business from inception to seven figures, earning prestigious industry accolades and media recognition from The Times, BBC News, and Business Leader. Scarlett serves as an EDI ambassador to the Recruitment Employment Confederation UK and judges for the REC Awards and Black Tech Achievement Awards. Her keynote sessions equip leaders and organisations with practical strategies for building inclusive cultures, scaling purpose-led businesses, and driving meaningful change across recruitment, STEM sectors, and beyond.

Scarlett Allen-Horton secured investment and scaled Harper Fox Partners from inception to a seven-figure enterprise, demonstrating the entrepreneurial capability that also saw her reach the finals of BBC's The Apprentice and become a business partner to Lord Sugar. As founder of the multi-award-winning executive search firm, she has built a fully retained business recognised for its commitment to purpose-led recruitment, combining commercial success with meaningful impact across STEM sectors and beyond. Her journey from zero starting point to established industry leader reflects both strategic vision and dedication to transforming how organisations approach talent acquisition and leadership development.

With over a decade of experience in global executive search and leadership assessment, Scarlett has earned multiple prestigious awards spanning client quality, top consultant recognition, and leadership accolades. Her expertise in equality, diversity and inclusion has positioned her as an EDI ambassador and adviser to the Recruitment and Employment Confederation UK, whilst she serves as a board committee adviser to the UK Black Business Show and judge for both the REC Awards and Black Tech Achievement Awards. Featured in prominent media outlets including The Times, BBC News, Business Leader, The Independent, and Daily Mail, Scarlett's influence extends across recruitment, entrepreneurship, and inclusive leadership. She also acts as an RFC board adviser and voluntary ambassador for numerous charitable and purpose-driven organisations, demonstrating her commitment to creating opportunity and driving systemic change.

Through her keynote presentations and business coaching, Scarlett equips leaders and organisations with practical strategies for building inclusive cultures, scaling purpose-led enterprises, and implementing meaningful diversity initiatives. Her speaking engagements at events including Karen Brady's Women in Tech Expo, the EON Leadership Series, NatWest Rose Review, UK Construction Week, and the Solihull Chamber Awards deliver actionable insights grounded in real-world experience. Audiences gain clarity on navigating investment, developing authentic leadership approaches, and embedding EDI principles that drive both performance and cultural transformation. Scarlett's focus on purpose, passion, and profit empowers aspiring entrepreneurs and established business leaders alike to achieve sustainable growth whilst creating workplaces where everyone can thrive.