Stevens was managing director of the business services division at TNS RI where he was in charge of financial services, travel and tourism and B2B research. He was also global account director for Vodafone.

In his new role Stevens will be responsible for overseeing Simpson Carpenter’s technology, media and telecom (TMT) research activities.

Simpson Carpenter co-founder and managing director Tom Simpson said: “Mike is extremely well-regarded by major clients in this sector and we are naturally delighted to be able to add such a big hitter to our executive team. His unrivalled knowledge of TMT research and extensive contacts in the industry will be invaluable as we continue to grow our telecoms business.”

The firm touted Stevens’ appointment as “the first in a series of high-level appointments”, so watch this space.