Thompson (pictured) has been with OTX (which was acquired by Ipsos last year) since 2006, and previously spent eight years working at Ipsos’s London office.

In the new role he will be responsible for helping the firm’s clients develop a better understanding of social media and how it affects consumer behaviour and attitudes.

Ipsos’ EVP of corporate development Ian Wright said: “Social media is a phenomenon that both intrigues and mystifies marketers. Ipsos offers research solutions that help them find clear and strategic answers to their questions. Kevin’s role will be to help connect clients to those answers, ensuring they are on top of what is happening in this rapidly changing ecosystem.”