De Regt joined Esomar in November 2025 and has been working on organisational transformation, operational alignment and execution across the business.

Prior to Esomar, De Regt held senior leadership positions across the non-profit, communications and digital sectors. He has worked in operations, organisational development, human resources and business strategy across a 20-year career.

De Regt will lead the next phase of the organisation’s development, with a focus on member experience and digital transformation.

Joaquim Bretcha, previously director general at Esomar, left the role at the end of 2025. Bretcha was appointed interim director general, initially on an interim basis, in 2023, and prior to that, had been president of the organisation between 2019 and 2021.

Earlier this year, Anne-Sophie Damelincourt was elected Esomar council president for 2025-2028, replacing Ray Poynter.

Anne-Sophie Damelincourt, president, Esomar, said: “Patrick’s appointment comes at an important moment for Esomar and the wider profession. As we continue strengthening Esomar’s role in standards, advocacy, AI and responsible innovation, this appointment is an important step in preparing the organisation for the future.

“Patrick brings the leadership, operational expertise and transformation experience needed to help us deliver greater value for members and support a more connected and responsive global organisation.” 

De Regt said: “As CEO, my role is to ensure alignment, prioritisation and delivery at pace, working closely with the executive team and our staff.

“This builds on the direction already underway, with a continued focus on member value, organisational clarity, digital transformation and ensuring Esomar is well positioned for the future.”