LEWIS PR has been appointed by AIM-listed IT skills provider InterQuest to handle its public relations in the UK. LEWIS secured the retainer campaign, after a three-way pitch.

The recruitment company, specialising in the provision of IT contractors, permanent staff and executive search and selection, announced its admission to trading on the Alternative Investment Market ("AIM") in 2005. The company provides resources to a number of blue-chip retailers, including Carphone Warehouse, Kingfisher Group, Dixons, McDonalds, Harrods, Sainsbury’s and the John Lewis Partnership.

LEWIS will focus on formulating a strategy for InterQuest to reach target audiences, including business decision makers and IT recruiters. Areas for corporate focus include skill shortages in the IT industry and the need for flexible working. The multi-level campaign will aim to elevate the profile of InterQuest as a thought leader on these topics, among others.

David Bevan, head of corporate communications at InterQuest, commented: “We met with three very different agencies, but LEWIS appealed the most with its proposition of creating an identity for the group as a whole, rather than promoting InterQuest on a divisional level. Their creative but results-driven approach was very appealing.”

Kath Pooley, SVP UK for LEWIS PR, added. “LEWIS is thrilled to come on board at such an exciting time for InterQuest. The fact that the company is entrepreneurially-driven makes it a perfect culture fit for LEWIS. We’re confident that the corporate success and messages will speak from themselves in the media. InterQuest is a great story that’s waiting to be told.”

The campaign kicks off immediately.