Bacuvier (pictured) was appointed chief executive at Dunnhumby in 2017 and stepped down from the role in April.

At Kantar, he succeeds Josep Montserrat, who takes on the role of non-executive chairman of the Worldpanel business.

Montserrat joined Worldpanel in 1994 and became chief executive of the division in 2007.

Kantar Worldpanel includes 1.5 million panellists globally and is used as industry currency data in around 50 countries.

Prior to Dunnhumby, Bacuvier spent 10 years at Google in roles including vice-president, advertising solutions, Emea, responsible for online advertising business in the region.

He started his career in strategy at Booz Allen Hamilton and Orange Group.

Ian Griffiths, deputy chief executive and chief financial officer at Kantar, said: “The next phase of growth for our Worldpanel business will be heavily influenced by technology and advanced data analytics, and Guillaume’s expertise and experience will prove invaluable.

“He is an experienced, international CEO combining world-class technology credentials with a deep understanding of consumer behaviour and the retail and media landscapes. He also has a proven track record in transforming a data business and holds excellent relationships with retailers and FMCG/CPG brands across the world.”

In July, Kantar announced the appointment of Chris Jansen, chief executive of global schools group Cognita, as its new chief executive, effective from 1^st November. The hire followed the departure of Alexis Nasard, who resigned after only four months in the chief executive role.

WPP sold 60% of Kantar to private equity firm Bain Capital in a deal that concluded in December 2019.