We’ve got some amazing news to share – our Innovation Director Sarah Askew has been named a Research Hero for 2025 by the Market Research Society (MRS).
Each year, MRS celebrates researchers who go the extra mile to push boundaries, make a difference, and keep the industry moving forward. And anyone who’s worked with Sarah knows that sounds exactly like her.
Over the past 20+ years, Sarah’s worn a lot of hats – starting out as a qual researcher, going on to pioneer new methodologies, launch and lead teams across agencies, and now heading up innovation and thought leadership here at STRAT7 Researchbods. She’s a key player in the STRAT7 AI Innovation Lab, helping shape our AI strategy and keeping ethical innovation front and centre. Whether she’s diving into how Gen Z really thinks or exploring what consumers want from AI, Sarah’s all about doing work that has real-world impact.
But what really sets Sarah apart is how much she cares about people. She was nominated as a Research Hero for being a tireless advocate – not just for clients and colleagues, but in wider life too. She supports families as an end-of-life doula, trains NHS and care staff, mentors her teammates, champions mental health, and makes sure inclusion isn’t just a buzzword, but a way of working.
“This recognition is really about the brilliant teams I get to work with and the people who share their experiences so generously,” said Sarah. “Innovation isn’t about tech for its own sake – it’s about listening differently and acting with purpose.”
We’re delighted to see Sarah’s dedication, creativity and leadership acknowledged by the MRS – and we couldn’t agree more with their decision!
You can read Sarah’s full Research Hero profile on the MRS website here.
A dedicated data collection unit gives the specialism the recognition it deserves, after all high quality data is the foundation for any strategic insight.
Our combined strengths in customer and social media data collection alongside analytics ensures STRAT7 occupies a unique position in the market. This efficient and holistic infrastructure makes us a ‘one-stop shop’ for insights, allowing clients to consolidate their spend through a single provider. Collecting and analysing data at scale and pace also underpins the group’s offer of always-on customer centricity.”
Jonathan Clough, COO of STRAT7
STRAT7 Audiences’ managed network is made up of 47 million people across 70 countries, covering consumers, decision makers and patients. STRAT7 launched their proprietary data integrity methodology and joined the MRS Global Data Quality Initiative in 2023. The launch of STRAT7 Audiences demonstrates the group’s ongoing commitment to reducing the threat of data fraud globally.
Tom Bates, Managing Director of STRAT7 Audiences, says: “More than ever, clients need confidence in their data. They need senior, consultative data collection experts in the room ensuring the success and integrity of every single one of their projects.
We’re really excited to get started with Audiences, to continue providing exceptional, bespoke service to our clients and to compete for new opportunities. This launch is the natural next step for STRAT7 in achieving operational excellence and powering global insights.”
The new agency will operate from the STRAT7 Leeds and London offices, with a North American hub in New York planned for 2025. The team currently stands at 55 people with plans for growth across their Service and Delivery teams.
For more information visit strat7.com/audiences.
