Mark Thorpe appointed as Chair of MRS EDI Council as Josephine Hansom steps down
05 June 2025

Josephine Hansom's leadership laid a strong foundation for the council, and Mark Thorpe's appointment heralds a new era in advancing equality, diversity, and inclusion. 

Josephine Hansom, FMRS, Gen Z insight & strategy, Market Reseach Society (MRS) Board Member and co-host OUTsights podcast, steps down as Chair of MRS Equality, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Council. Hansom has been thanked for her passion, engagement and leadership by EDI Council members. 

Reflecting on their journey, Hansom shared their perspective: “Personally, I got involved in EDI via MRSpride as I believe that visibility is a powerful thing, but for us as researchers, EDI is not a passion project or a nice to have. It's the difference between delivering great research or not. Whether it's ensuring that we speak to and listen to a diverse group of people for a brand, or that we attract and recruit the best talent regardless of background, it's the reputation of our industry that's at stake. Research and Insight is about people and we rely on the kindness of strangers to do our job. We should be the first to champion EDI and the last to defend it.” 

Leadership now passes to Dr Mark Thorpe FMRS, Board Director at Truth Consulting, who will take on the role of Chair. Mark brings vast experience and a deep commitment to the principles of equality, diversity, and inclusion. Speaking about his new role, he stated: “EDI has been under the microscope like never before; political and cultural shifts have challenged the validity of EDI as both a moral and commercial imperative. Yet, to paraphrase the wonderful Maya Angelou, ‘and still we rise.’ Every movement for justice, fairness, equality and inclusion has had its challenges. As long as we are clear about what we want to achieve, and cognisant that we are working for the good of everyone, we will make progress. I have no doubt about that.” 

Thorpe highlighted his vision for the council, saying, “At base level, our task is to ensure that the sector we work in is structured to enhance the working lives of those within it. What’s not to like? It’s an honour to Chair the MRS EDI Council, which is a fundamental driver of change within the sector. There are wonderful people doing brilliant things. Day in and day out. I’m really looking forward to working with a group of people who care passionately – it’s rare to be part of something so special, vibrant and hopeful.” 

Jane Frost, CBE, CEO of MRS, also expressed confidence in Mark's ability to lead the council forward: “Mark has been a huge supporter of MRS’ EDI programme and has a lot of experience to bring to the role. He inherits a great set of volunteers and the hard work of Josephine, so I have no doubt he will soon make his presence felt.”