TNS Restructures APMEA Leadership Team

TNS has re-organised its operations in Asia Pacific, the Middle East and Africa (APMEA) into two separate regions - TNS Africa and Middle East (AME) led by Kim Macilwaine and TNS Asia Pacific (APAC) headed by Chris Riquier.

In addition, Jamie Hall - who is CEO of APMEA at present - will take up the new post of TNS Global Chair.

The reshuffle has been made following the merger with RI which took place last year, and the 18 month partnership with RMS which provides customized research in West Africa.

Macilwaine, who is currently Interim CEO of RI South Africa based in Durban, has a 25-year background with Unilever, including the role of MD and Chairman of the Unilever Food business in South Africa from 1996 to 2004.

Riquier currently serves as CEO Africa, India and Oceania, having begun his market research career in 1997 and progressed to a number of leadership roles including MD of Australia and New Zealand. During his time with TNS, he has led several acquisitions and mergers, as well as the partnership with RMS. He will relocate from Melbourne to Singapore in 2011.

Hall founded CM Research in New Zealand and Australia 28 years ago, and following the acquisition by NFO and the merger with TNS has been a regional leader for TNS since 2003. His APMEA achievements include overseeing the merger of NFO with TNS in 14 countries, and more recently Research International with TNS across 16 countries.

CEO Pedro Ros comments: 'I look forward to working closely with Jamie, Chris and Kim as we go into 2011, with these changes giving us an increased client focus and strong commitment to further develop in these high growth regions.'

Web site: www.tnsglobal.com .