Harkness (pictured) joins from the National Citizen Service Trust where she has been responsible for overseeing the research and evaluation function since 2019.

Prior to her time at the trust she worked as a research director for both Ipsos MORI and Britain Thinks. Harkness is a mixed methods specialist and will spearhead Basis Social’s quantitative offering, working alongside Research Live Young Researcher of the Year Matt Hellon. She will also contribute to the agency’s broader innovation in methods.

Commenting on the appointment, Basis Social chief executive Darren Bhattachary said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Vic to the team. She is a hugely experienced and multi-talented researcher who will provide strategic insight and counsel to clients and colleagues alike.”