Courtright joined Research Now as executive vice-president of client services in 2011. Following the merger with SSI at the end of 2017, she became executive vice-president of global research science. The company rebranded as Dynata in January 2019.

Almy became chief executive of the Marketing Research Association in 2010 and later managed its merger with Casro, which led to the formation of the Insights Association. His departure was announced in August and he will step down at the end of the year. 

David Rothstein, Insights Association board chairman and chief executive of RTi Research, said: "I couldn’t be more pleased to welcome Melanie as our next CEO. Her depth of industry knowledge, which includes a global perspective and keen understanding of the regulatory environment, combined with proven leadership ability and the high regard of her peers are all factors that will contribute to Melanie’s success.

"Her progressive vision is exactly what we need at this point in our industry’s evolution and we’re thrilled to have her lead the association."

Courtright added: "The Insights Association is a critical part of the US research industry’s success and crucial to its continued contributions to global economic growth. I’m thrilled to work with the talented and creative professionals across our community in this new capacity and eager to help forge a path forward with a new generation of methods, technologies and standards that protect and grow our market."