Hawkings (pictured) was previously executive vice-president in research, insight and consulting, specialising in the retail sector. Prior to the formation of Savanta in February 2019, she was director at Morar.

Hawkings will lead Savanta’s UK team and serve on the company’s board, reporting to global chief executive Roger Perowne. Nick Baker, who previously led the UK, has taken up the role of global chief research officer. 

The company has also promoted group finance controller Barbara Gurhan to chief financial officer. Chief technology officer Bart Read will also join the board.

Roger Perowne, global chief executive, Savanta, said: “We are excited to start 2021 by announcing several key appointments to the Savanta board. I would like to thank Barbara Gurhan, Caroline Hawkings and Bart Read for their commitment to the success of Savanta over the past two years and I look forward to working alongside them as we spearhead the next stage of our growth.”