A New Chapter at ClerksWell
Rob Killick Hands Over the Reins to Kat Ovsyannykova
After nearly three decades of visionary leadership, Rob Killick is retiring as CEO of ClerksWell, marking the end of an era and the beginning of an exciting new chapter under Kat Ovsyannykova’s stewardship.
From Cyberia to ClerksWell: Rob’s Founding Vision
The story of ClerksWell began in the late 1990s when Rob co-founded cScape Strategic Internet Services, one of the UK’s earliest digital agencies. The company emerged from the pioneering tech team behind Cyberia, one of the first internet cafés in the UK. Rob’s foresight and entrepreneurial spirit helped shape the digital landscape at a time when the internet was still in its infancy.
Rob led the company through multiple strategic moves from intranets to websites and later to specialisation in Sitecore, Umbraco, and Optimizely. His ability to anticipate market shifts and invest in emerging technologies helped ClerksWell remain competitive and relevant across decades of digital transformation.
In 2012, when cScape was reborn as ClerksWell it was named after the historic Clerks’ Well in Clerkenwell, London where our offices were based for many years.
Building a Culture of Excellence
Rob’s leadership extended far beyond technical innovation. He cultivated a culture of resilience, collaboration and integrity. His commitment to people-first leadership was evident in his mentorship of rising stars, his support for team wellbeing and his belief in empowering others to lead.
Rob’s influence also shaped ClerksWell’s approach to recruitment, client relationships and strategic planning. His annual vision-setting sessions and accountability frameworks helped align the company around shared goals and long-term ambitions.
A Thoughtful Transition
Rob’s decision to step down as CEO was part of a carefully planned leadership transition. He will remain involved as Director, continuing to support the company’s strategic direction and financial health. The move reflects Rob’s confidence in the next generation of leadership and his enduring commitment to ClerksWell’s success.
Welcoming Kat Ovsyannykova as CEO
Stepping into the CEO role is Kat Ovsyannykova, who has already made a significant impact as Chief Operating Officer. Kat brings a sharp operational mind and a people-first ethos to her new role as CEO of ClerksWell. Kat has led the company through a period of stabilisation and renewal, driving our recent successes and strengthening our delivery operations. Her leadership style - clear, decisive and deeply collaborative - has earned her the trust of colleagues and clients alike.
Kat’s appointment signals a bold new phase for ClerksWell, one that builds on Rob’s legacy while embracing the future of digital.
View Kat's LinkedIn profile or email her directly k.ovsyannykova@clerkswell.com.
Looking Ahead
As ClerksWell enters this new chapter, we remain grounded in our values and energised by the opportunities ahead. To Rob: thank you for your vision, your leadership and your unwavering belief in the power of digital to transform organisations. To Kat: we’re excited to follow your lead into the future.
