Hassall (pictured) has worked in the sector for 20 years, including spells at TNS and Business & Market Research, which was bought by Wirthlin Worldwide in 2002. Wirthlin in turn was bought by Harris in 2004. Hassall has also previously managed a small consultancy specialising in industrial and commercial markets.

JRA managing director Paul Summers said: “Despite the difficult trading conditions in the wider economy, JRA has seen good growth in the past year. We believe that we have a significant opportunity to expand our B2B offering, in line with the growth we have witnessed recently within our consumer services.

“We feel that there is an opportunity to really push into this market. Finding the right person to head up this division was critical – we are delighted that David is joining us.”