Bos was most recently executive director in Asia Pacific for Nielsen, with responsibility for developing the firm’s customised online research business. Prior to that he was director of multi-country research and business process development at TNS.

SSI chief executive Kees de Jong has tasked Bos with leading the company through its “next phase of growth” in the region. “We take our role in Asia Pacific very seriously,” said de Jong. “I’m confident our clients in this region will benefit from Rene’s deep understanding of online research and his business experience in Asia Pacific.”

Commenting on his new role as managing director, Bos pointed to “dramatic” industry growth and the increasing viability of online research in Asia in support of his belief that it is “an excellent time” to further develop SSI’s business in the region. “I’m eager to use my experience in both consumer and b2b research, in online and multi-country research, to consult and support out clients.”

Bos’s predecessor, Leong, will remain with the company until the end of April. He has been president of SSI Asia since 2005, around which time the company opened its first regional office, in China.