How Independent Consultants Can Compete on Quality and Scale by partnering with InnovateMR+Ivy Exec

This session is designed specifically to support independent research consultants as they look ahead to 2026. We’ll explore how to strengthen your research offering by combining high-quality, verified samples with global reach and agile methodologies—without the infrastructure of a large agency. Topics include:

• How independents can access hard-to-reach B2B, healthcare, and specialist audiences
• What to look for in sample partners to ensure quality, verification, and credibility
• Ways to scale projects globally while maintaining control and confidence in your data
• How modern recruitment, profiling, and AI-driven quality checks reduce risk and rework
• Practical approaches to delivering “agency-level” insight as an independent

Why members should attend
Independent consultants are under increasing pressure to deliver fast, credible, and globally relevant insights—often with limited time and resources. This session will show how the right sampling and research support can help you punch above your weight, protect your reputation, and future-proof your research offering in 2026 and beyond.

InnovateMR + Ivy Exec

Since the acquisition of Ivy Exec in January 2023, InnovateMR and Ivy Exec operate as a unified research solutions provider that bridges traditional quantitative sample access with deep qualitative expert insights. Together they offer:

• End‑to‑End Research Capabilities: From broad quantitative sampling to targeted expert interviews and B2B insights. PR Newswire
• Advanced Quality & Fraud Prevention Tools: Enhanced technologies like AI‑driven analytics and fraud detection to ensure data integrity. InnovateMR
• Broader Market Reach: Expanded global reach across industries requiring detailed consumer and expert insights. InnovateMR

Summary:
InnovateMR is a market research technology powerhouse delivering fast, quality insights through advanced sampling and analytics, while Ivy Exec brings a large, vetted B2B expert network and career‑oriented content; together they offer integrated quantitative and qualitative research solutions for complex decision‑making needs.

OUR SPEAKERS

Mari Smith

Mari Smith- AVP, Client & Business Development, EMEA at InnovateMR + Ivy Exec

With 15 years in the market research industry, Mari Smith brings a unique blend of operational expertise and commercial acumen. Over the past four years, she has transitioned from an operational background to a commercial role, leveraging her deep industry knowledge to build and expand InnovateMR + Ivy Exec’s EU business. Mari has worked with various clients—including MR agencies, consultancies, private equity firms, end clients, and media agencies—across quantitative and qualitative methodologies. Her experience in streamlining operations, scaling business growth, and delivering client-focused solutions makes her a key driver of success at InnovateMR + Ivy Exec.

(84) Mari Suszka-Smith | LinkedIn

Monica Kaur

Monica Kaur – Client Manager, EMEA at InnovateMR + Ivy Exec

With over 15 years of experience in client and new business development within the market research industry, Monica Kaur specialises in onboarding new clients, developing client relationships, and driving revenue growth. At InnovateMR + Ivy Exec, Monica partners with agencies, consultancies and brands to provide both quantitative and qualitative solutions across fieldwork and full-service research studies.

Her specialties include consulting on quantitative and qualitative methodologies, within B2B, B2C and healthcare research, to drive organisational growth.

(84) Monica Kaur | LinkedIn

David Hickson

David Hickson – Client Director, EMEA at InnovateMR + Ivy Exec

With over 25 years of market research experience, David Hickson specializes in data integrity, panel management, and research technology. As Client Director for EMEA at InnovateMR + Ivy Exec, he partners with agencies and brands to refine their research strategies through robust sampling techniques, fraud detection measures, and AI-driven automation.

David has worked across B2B, B2C, and public sector research, developing methodologies that enhance data quality and operational efficiency. His expertise spans survey design, respondent engagement, and leveraging automation to maintain high standards and maximize value.

(84) David Hickson | LinkedIn

InnovateMR: Market Research & Consumer Insights | Survey Panels | InnovateMR

Ivy Exec: Market Research Recruitment for B2B | Ivy Exec

Register for this session here 

More info about InnovateMR and Ivy Exec here.