Browell has been with the company since June 2011. She joined from the BBC, where she was research manager for BBC1, to lead Dipsticks’ Otherlines.tv business – its TV research arm.

She was promoted to research director in March 2013, at which time she took on full responsibility for the Other Lines of Enquiry media research brand.

Alongside her board level role, Browell will continue to lead the Otherlines.tv brand.

Dipsticks chairman John Raglan said: “Penny has made a really significant contribution to our progress by developing the TV division into what it is today; respected by players within the BBC and commercial broadcasters alike. We’re sure that Penny will make a lively and sophisticated contribution at board level and that we’ll benefit from her considerable research experience.”

Browell’s colleague, Alex Banks, has also been promoted – to research manager at Otherlines.tv.

Additionally, Jon Armstrong has joined Dipsticks Research as head of brand and communications research. Armstrong previously worked for AGB, QED, NOP and The Sage Group.