About h k + a
Clarity and Focus for Sustainable Growth
i'm helen king, the founder of h k + a.
I'm Helen King, founder of h k+a. With over 30 years of experience in the food and drink industry, I have had the privilege of working with both global giants and innovative startups across diverse local and international markets. My journey has taken me on Inspiration Expeditions and ethnographic research to all corners of the globe, enriching my understanding of consumer behaviour and providing me with a global perspective that empowers my work.
From leading strategic insight at Bord Bia to partnering with iconic Irish brands, I have developed a talent and energy for unlocking the potential of businesses and helping them achieve sustainable growth. Beyond my consultancy work, I am committed to the Irish food and tourism sectors, serving as Chairwoman of Tipperary Tourism and a Board Director of Love Irish Food. This dual perspective allows me to address the challenges and opportunities facing these vital industries with insight and foresight.
My career path has included roles such as Marketing Planning at Cadbury Ireland and Director of Strategic Insight and Planning at Bord Bia (The Irish Food Board). Throughout these experiences, I have learned the significance of clarity and focusing on the essential elements of success. I founded h k+a to share my expertise and help food and drink companies navigate the ever-evolving landscape, ensuring they remain at the forefront of the industry.
My journey
This has taken me from Marketing Planning at Cadbury Ireland, to Director of Strategic Insight and Planning at Bord Bia (The Irish Food Board).
Along the way, I've learned the importance of always striving for clarity and focussing on the essential elements of success. I founded
h k+a
to share my expertise and help food and drink companies navigate the ever-changing landscape.
Experience & Expertise
Formerly Director of Strategic Insight & Planning at Bord Bia, I spearheaded the creation of The Thinking House, a unique Insight Centre that empowers companies to think differently. I also developed and authored Bord Bia's strategic plans, driving the organisation's priorities and impact.
My experience includes consumer and customer research, brand creation and development, strategy and innovation.
I believe the cornerstone of sustainable growth lies in understanding your consumer, looking to future trends, and ensuring all strategies are grounded in deep consumer and customer insight.
As a boutique agency, we have a smaller client load, which enables us to be committed, agile and responsive.
We are invested in your success and will provide exceptional support throughout the project and indeed after the project is delivered if required.
We have experience of working in and with semi-state agencies and understand the nature and dynamics of working and navigating across multiple stakeholders.



