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Anita Watkins

CEO
Insights Association

Anita Watkins is Chief Executive Officer of the Insights Association, the
leading organization representing the market research, insights, and data
analytics industry. A seasoned strategic leader, she brings three decades of
experience in insights, innovation, and organizational transformation, most
recently serving as Chief Solutions Leader for North America (Creative,
Innovation, Qualitative) at Kantar. During her tenure at Kantar, she also
held global leadership roles, including Global Head of Qualitative (2017–
2023) and Global Head of Innovation (2021–2024), serving in overlapping
capacities for several years.
Watkins is widely recognized for building high-performing, inclusive teams,
strengthening client and stakeholder partnerships, and advancing the
future of insights through technology, talent development, and ethical best
practices. A respected voice in both qualitative and quantitative research,
she is an experienced industry spokesperson and advocate for the power of
insights to drive better decisions and outcomes.
In addition to her executive leadership, Watkins has held influential roles
across the industry and academia, including serving on the Advertising
Research Foundation Board of Trustees, the University of Dayton School of
Business Advisory Council, and as Chair of the Michigan State University
MSMRA Advisory Board. She is an active speaker and contributor to the
global insights community and is committed to developing the next
generation of industry leaders.

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