Ipsos Appoints Mitch Barns as Chairman and CEO, Americas

Ipsos has appointed Mitch Barns as Chairman and CEO, Americas, effective November 2, 2026. In this role, Barns will lead Ipsos in the United States and oversee the company's operations across Canada and Latin America. He will report to Ipsos CEO Kelly Beaver and join the company's Executive Management Committee.

Barns brings extensive experience in the insights, market research, and analytics industries. He served as Global CEO of Nielsen from 2014 to 2018, overseeing the business during a period of strategic change, mergers and acquisitions, and investment in digital and technology capabilities.

Before becoming Nielsen's global chief executive, Barns held leadership positions across its U.S. media and Greater China businesses. He also led operations focused on advanced analytics and product innovation. Earlier in his career, he spent 12 years at Procter & Gamble in marketing research and brand management.

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Following his departure from Nielsen, Barns served as CEO of The Opus Group from 2021 to 2024. He has also held board and advisory positions with businesses operating in insights, analytics, data, and technology.

His appointment comes as Ipsos continues to focus on its Americas business and the evolving needs of clients across the region. His background in research, analytics, and technology-led business transformation is relevant to the company's leadership priorities.

Barns succeeds Mary Ann Packo, who is preparing to leave Ipsos at the end of November. She will work alongside him during the transition to support the handover.