Walkey (pictured), who has 20 years of research experience in retail, technology and financial services, joined Maru/Matchbox as senior vice-president in 2016. She previously spent nine years at Vision Critical, latterly as senior vice-president.

Dykstra joins the company from RSG, where he was vice-president of sales and market intelligence, and his background includes positions at AB Inbev, Mark Anthony Group and Match Marketing Group.

Ged Parton, chief executive, Maru Group, said: “Both the retail and technology markets are changing at an incredible pace, so I am pleased to have a research veteran like Michelle take charge.”

He added: “The addition of Allan signals how much opportunity we see to help our clients make timely decisions with confidence. His experience in innovation, advertising, sales and marketing on the ‘client side’ equips Allan to be a knowledgeable and invaluable partner.”