Chalisey (pictured) joins Route from WPP’s EssenceMediacom UK, where she spent over a decade in various research roles, and the last five years as insight director.

At EssenceMediacom, Chalisey developed the insight team and led innovation in audience understanding, including research that explored how brands can understand the intricacies of media consumption within diverse audiences.

Prior to Mediacom, Chalisey worked at TNS for over 11 years. 

Chalisey takes over from Euan Mackay, chief strategy officer at Route, who was promoted to chief executive earlier in the year. Mackay succeeds Denise Turner, who joins the IPA as media research director in June.

Route recently appointed Ipsos and Adwanted UK to collect audience data for out-of-home advertising. The new seven-year contract started this month and Route will continue providing data for the industry over the next two years until the new methodology is launched in 2027.

Mackay said: “We had an exceptionally high calibre of applicants, but Ruth’s diligence, passion and experience stood out. She has first-class research and planning skills and wide experience of using Route and other JIC data in senior agency roles. She will play a valuable part in delivering the new solution and introducing it to our stakeholders.”