The initiative recognises those who do not necessarily qualify for the usual professional recognition from MRS, such as a fellowship, but who have given exceptional service to the sector or contributed to support colleagues or stakeholders.  

The scheme has been running for the past few years, since the Covid-19 pandemic.

Read about what inspires them to work in the sector:

• Pardeep Verma, Acuity Analytics
• Meera Sunnasy, Ipsos
• Danielle Scott, MRBA
• Corrine Moy, Corrine Moy Consulting
• Chris Moore, Ipsos UK
• Amy Middleton, BEAM Fieldwork
• Suzanne Lugthart, Bigger Than Biscuits
• Barry Leventhal, Barry Analytics Ltd
• Sergiy Kornyev, NIQ
• Emma Kirk, Boxclever
• Judith Kennedy, Ipsos
• Helen Dunstall, Vanson Bourne
• Andy Butterworth, Verian Group
• Cornelius Barry, Rigour Research Limited
• Priya Minhas, Opinium
• Madeleine Davies, Potentia

To qualify, individuals must work in research, insight or analytics and receive 80% approval from the judges of the programme.

The judges of the programme 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.”
Louise Sharpe, senior insight manager, BT Group 

"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."
James Turner, chief executive and founder

"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. "
Lydia Fuller, chief operating officer, Acumen Fieldwork  

"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!"
Paul Child, head of UK, Human8

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

"We know heroes come in all guises so this is a great way to recognise that, and who hasn’t dreamed about being a super-hero, and what your particularly special power would be!”
Nick Meagher, head of advanced analytics and insight, Cooperative Group

Find out more about the MRS Research Heroes programme.