Swanson (pictured) joins the company from Nielsen, where he was senior vice-president of corporate development for 10 years, based in New York.

In the newly created role, he will lead Macromill’s strategy for investments, mergers and acquisitions, overseeing development, communication and execution.

Headquartered in Tokyo and Rotterdam, Macromill recently acquired US research agency Acturus, neuromarketing company Centan and a 51% stake in Tokyo Survey Research from Hakuhodo. The company also acquired a minority stake in W&S in 2017.

Scott Ernst, representative executive officer and global chief executive of Macromill, said: “M&A activity has always been a strategic priority to drive growth and profitability for the Macromill Group. Derek’s appointment crystalises and reinvigorates our strategy, providing renewed focus and energy on accelerating our performance through identifying and executing global business development opportunities.”