Cooke has been with the company for 15 years and was formerly head of the company’s Technology, Media, Telecoms and Entertainment research practice in the UK. Steve Evans and Denholm Scotford will step into his previous position.

He will lead a team of experts in building and maintaining community panels across a number of brand sectors; further appointments are expected to be announced shortly to support the growth ambitions of the business.

ITWP Acquisitions became the sole shareholder of Harris Interactive UK, Germany and France in July last year. CEO of ITWP, Frederic Charles Petit, said: “We are delighted with Pete’s appointment to lead and develop the Harris Interactive Communities practice.

“Combining world-class technology and automation with Harris Interactive’s sector and research expertise is a key part of our strategy to develop the company moving forward. We believe it delivers a smarter and more impactful solution for our clients, designed and delivered around their specific needs.”