Font led a management buyout of the Wilmslow-based business last year and remains a co-owner of the firm alongside Auton (pictured) and fellow directors Andy Wright, Richard Walker and Katie Waterhouse.

“Ian will still be involved of course,” said Auton, “but his success as the outgoing MD leaves an impressive legacy.

“I’ll have the help of the same close-knit management team – the restructure won’t change that. However, my role will evolve to include a more strategic focus, and consequently our account directors and managers will enjoy increasing autonomy to use their skills and expertise to grow the business too.”

Auton first worked with Ci in 1992 but left after five years to become research manager for the Bank of Scotland Group. He returned to Ci two years later, in 1999, as a research director and was made head of the company’s financial services research team in 2008.

Wright is responsible for public sector research and operations, Walker for business development and marketing, and Waterhouse the company’s people strategy.