The MRS Research Heroes programme celebrates individuals who do not necessarily qualify for normal professional recognition, such as fellowships, but who have given exceptional service to the sector or who have done something amazing for their colleagues or stakeholders.  

Jane Frost, chief executive at MRS, said: “We all need to say thank you more and celebrate more. There are no limits to the Research Hero scheme – all the research heroes are receiving a big thank you from their colleagues via this award. Congratulations to all of them for inspiring the nominations and a personal thank you for all you have done.”

Read their stories:

• Sarah Askew, innovation director, STRAT7 Researchbods
• Rob Klimek, senior project manager, Magenta Research
• Julia Jover Cano, research strategist, Studio intO
• Lian Mico, qualitative associate director, Toluna
• Anthony Shephard-Williams, director, Mustard
• Ester Marchetti, co-founder and head of innovation, Bolt Insight
• Ian Roberts, founder, RealAIzIT 
• Clare Otridge, director, Grounded Research Limited
• Abi Fuller, chief commercial officer and founder, Acumen Fieldwork 
• Alex Gabbutt, head of community research, The Diversity Standards Collective 
• Sinan Fahliogullari, senior insight and service design manager, Health and Safety Executive 
• Lynn Cross, area supervisor, South East, QRS
• Gill McKelvie, telephone unit recruiter, Viewpoint Field
• Annette White, research director, BVA Group
• Caroline Frankum, chief executive, Kantar Profiles 

What the judges said:

Hayley Ward, director of research and insight at Deliveroo, said: “This is a really important award that really celebrates people who go over and beyond for the good of all of us who work in the sector. It is a fantastic way to recognise people who genuinely care about making a positive difference.”

Louise Sharpe, senior insight manager at BT Group said: “I think this initiative provides a great platform to celebrate those colleagues that truly deserve to be recognised for the role they play and the contribution they make to our sector. Given the broad nomination criteria, the award is open to all, so helps to champion inclusivity.”

Marie Robelin, growth strategy and transformation insights lead at Unilever, said: “This is a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the exceptional contributions of individuals within our industry. It is an inclusive platform that recognises the diverse talents and dedication of professionals who strive to make a positive impact.”

James Turner, CEO and founder at Delineate, said: “One of the things that makes the market research industry so special is that its people go the extra mile. Heroes to their clients, heroes to citizens and consumers, and heroes to their colleagues. This award allows us to celebrate the best of our industry,  in a unique way, and I encourage you all to nominate the hero close to you.”

Lydia Fuller, chief operating officer at Acumen Fieldwork, said: “This award is unique in that it’s for everyone, recognising contributions across the industry, be that in a client organisation, research agency or those working in operations/support functions. We could all say ‘thank you’ more and I’m looking forward to celebrating all of the heroes in our sector.”

Paul Child, head of UK at Human8, said: “Not every hero wears a cape, and recognising the heroes hiding in plain sight gives us the opportunity to thank them for the amazing work they are doing for our industry. These people are making a positive difference to our sector in lots of different ways… helping celebrate that diversity is a privilege.”

Adam Goddard, general manager at Walr, said: “Recognising these contributions is essential in fostering a supportive and inclusive research community, and I’m really pleased to be part of this initiative.”

Nick Meagher,  head of advanced analytics and insight at Cooperative Group, said: “We know heroes come in all guises so this is a great way to recognise that, and who hasn’t dreamed about being a superhero, and what your particular special power would be.”

Judges also included Georgie White, director of customer insight at NatWest.

You can find out more about the Research Heroes programme here.