Leahy was most recently at Harris Decima where he was a senior vice president. He previously held the same role at Angus Reid Strategies. Earlier in his career he served as president of Nielsen Media Canada for five years before becoming interim president of the merged BBM Nielsen Media Canada entity.

At NPD he will oversee all spects of the firm’s technology, home, fashion, food and custom research businesses in Canada.

Randall Smith, group vice president, said: “NPD is deeply committed to continued growth. Mike’s strong track record of successfully managing syndicated research businesses makes him uniquely qualified to lead this. His collective experience and knowledge will be a great asset to our Canadian clients and NPD.”

Leahy will be based at the firm’s Toronto office.