Abbott (pictured left) will work on broadening the FMCG strategic perspective at Walnut Unlimited, and has previously worked for companies including Ipsos, GfK, Future Thinking and Intrinsic Insight as head of quantitative and mobile.

Thalita Parizotto (pictured right) has also been appointed as associate director, having previously worked in the same role at Strategir.

Parizotto will join Walnut’s shopper team in her new role, with her previous experience having come in shopper strategy and product innovation.

Chris Bland, managing director at Walnut Unlimited, said: “We are very happy that both of our new recruits bring a wealth of research experience and sector expertise that will benefit our existing clients.

“I can’t wait to see our new hires flourish in their roles, bringing their own unique style and vast amounts of experience to the team, contributing to Walnut’s continued growth.”