Ward (pictured) was previously senior vice-president at MindGym, where she led the firm’s people function, and other prior roles include work at management consulting company Oliver Wyman.

In addition to her role as chief people officer, Ward will join Kantar Public’s global management board.

The appointment follows Kantar Public’s divestment from Kantar and sale to Trilantic Europe, which was completed last month.

Dr Michelle Harrison, global chief executive officer at Kantar Public, said: “Our people are at the heart of what we do at Kantar Public and Zarina, in her new role as chief people officer, will play a vital role in ensuring that we continue to build on the strong capabilities, deep expertise and inclusive culture in our organisation.

“We were looking for a CPO who would share our passion for what we do, and alongside our colleagues on the leadership team, work to ensure that we are providing our people with the best possible opportunities to develop their professional skills. In Zarina we have found an outstanding leader for the next phase of our journey.”