Rudling (pictured left) has been managing director at Walnut Unlimited for the past 13 years, and oversaw the company’s sale to Accenture Song in 2024, with Walnut Unlimited’s integration into the company to be completed by the beginning of November.

Walnut Unlimited started life in 1977 as Marketing Sciences, and Rudling was part of the company when it acquired neuroscience consultancy Walnut in 2014 and when the company came together with ICM under the Walnut brand in 2017.

Rudling said: “It has been an absolute privilege to lead such talented and inspiring teams, conduct fascinating work, and partner with fantastic and varied clients over the years. I can’t thank the Walnut team enough both for the great work they deliver to clients and for all the fun along the way.

“I am very proud of what we have achieved together and even more excited about what is next for Walnut. With Laura at the helm, Walnut is perfectly placed to enter its next chapter, helping our clients unlock new opportunities, achieve even greater success backed by the scale of Accenture Song.” 

Ablett (pictured right) is board director leading the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) and retail teams, as well as having a people and growth responsibility across the business. She has 28 years’ experience in insight.

Commenting on her appointment, Ablett said: “I am honoured to take on this role and continue the brilliant legacy of Jane. With the backing of Accenture, we are in a fantastic position to accelerate growth and deliver even more value to our clients.”