Theis joins the company from Sermo, a social network for doctors, where he was business development director. He has previously held positions at Research Now SSI, Clearview Partners and Opinions 4 Good.

The new healthcare division offers access to Maru/Blue’s patient ailment community, launched earlier this year, which has 24 ailments pre-screened and includes patients and caregivers. Services offered include field and tab, sample only, recruitment, and full-service through sister agency Maru/Matchbox.

In his new role, Theis will be responsible for direct and channel sales for the US, Canada and the UK.

Mirjana Mihaljcic, chief revenue officer, Maru/Blue, said: “Casey joins us with vast experience as a business development professional with years of experience in the healthcare and market research space. His extensive experience in building and cultivating client relationships will enable us to rapidly grow exposure with the launch of our new healthcare channel.”