The Insights Association, the leading organization representing the market research, insights, and data analytics industry, today announced the appointment of Anita Watkins as its new Chief Executive Officer.
Watkins brings extensive strategic leadership experience in insights, innovation, and organizational transformation to the role. She joins IA from Kantar, where she succeeded in positions of increasing scope and responsibility during the past two decades. Watkins most recently served as Kantar’s Chief Solutions Leader NA: Creative, Innovation, Qualitative. She succeeds Melanie Courtright, who served as IA’s CEO from January 2020 before departing late last year to become Chief Strategy Officer at Sago.
“After an extensive and thoughtful search, the CEO Search Committee had the privilege of engaging with an exceptionally strong and diverse slate of nearly 40 candidates from across the insights and analytics profession,” said Terrae Schroeder, Senior Director of Marketing Strategy & Insights at Heartland Food Products Group and 2026 Board Chair of the Insights Association. “Through this process, the Board affirmed its shared vision for the organization’s next phase of growth, and with Anita we are confident we have selected the right leader to guide us forward.”
Throughout her career, Watkins has been recognized as a dynamic and transformative leader known for building high-performing, inclusive teams; strengthening client and stakeholder partnerships; and advancing the future of insights through technology, talent development, and industry leadership. Watkins has been lauded for her commitment to developing the next generation of leaders and advancing rigorous quality standards and best ethical practices. A recognized leader in qualitative and quantitative research, Watkins is known as an effective and compelling spokesperson, with vast experience representing organizations through impactful industry engagements.
“I’ve spent my career believing in the power of insights to drive better decisions and better outcomes,” Watkins said. “To lead the Insights Association – an organization so central to our industry’s integrity, growth, and future – is a true honor. I look forward to working with our members to shape the future of the insights profession and the important impact it has on business and society.”
In addition to her executive leadership experience, Watkins has served in key volunteer roles for industry organizations and academic institutions, including the Advertising Research Foundation Board of Trustees, the University of Dayton, School of Business Advisory Council, and Chair of the Michigan State University MSMRA Advisory Board. She has served as a Global Judge for the Tony Cowling Industry Award for Market Research Innovation and is an active speaker and contributor across the global insights community.
As CEO, Watkins will work closely with the Board of Directors, members, committees, partners, volunteers, and staff to advance the Insights Association’s mission of promoting the value, integrity, and future readiness of insights and analytics companies and the profession worldwide.