Thornton (pictured) joins with more than 20 years’ experience in consulting and commercial roles within the data and insights industry, most recently as an operating partner for J12.

Prior to this, Thornton was part of the management team at Cint Group and led the business through its initial public offering in February 2021.

Thornton joins Keziah Wonstolen on the board at Walr, as well as Ben Walton as the company’s first chief commercial officer in June.

Lewis Reeves, co-founder and chief executive at Walr, said: “Board members with the wealth of knowledge and expertise that Richard has are difficult to find.

“I am very much looking forward to learning from Richard and I know that he will help us achieve our far-reaching business goals. I can’t wait to see how the business develops with him as part of the team.”