Gompel’s 35-year career has included senior roles for Publicis Groupe in Europe and Asia. He spent the past four years at Valtech.

Gompel’s remit will be to drive client centricity and support clients to find new growth opportunities.

Gonzalo Fuentes, chief executive officer Emea, Kantar, said: “We’re investing in our people, our platforms and our data to help brands build effective growth strategies and I’m confident David will bring great energy, leadership and growth momentum to our team. 

“His passion and experience in transforming businesses through better use of digital systems and AI will be invaluable in complementing and accelerating our work to help clients make better marketing decisions.”

The appointment comes at a time of transformation for Kantar. Last year, the company finalised its sale of the Kantar Media business (which recently rebranded as Fifty5Blue) and in September, Paul Zwillenberg joined as Kantar’s new chief executive.

Caroline Frankum, formerly global chief executive of Kantar’s Profiles division, left the business at the end of 2025.

David Gompel, executive managing director UK at Kantar, said: “With economic and geopolitical uncertainty set to continue, boardrooms need partners who can help them quickly and confidently make decisions to drive growth, rooted in data and intelligence.  I’m thrilled to be part of the team at Kantar bringing this together to unlock value for our clients.”