Empowering the Future: A Conversation with Anne-Sophie Damelincourt, President of ESOMAR

As the research and insights industry continues to evolve, Latin America’s role on the global stage is becoming more influential than ever. In this special Focus on LATAM feature, we hear from ESOMAR President Anne-Sophie Damelincourt, who shares a heartfelt message of encouragement and unity with the LATAM research community.

From emphasizing the region’s unique creative strengths to offering practical pathways for deeper global engagement, Anne-Sophie Damelincourt highlights how professionals across LATAM can amplify their impact and connect with a worldwide network of insight leaders.

Your New Role at ESOMAR

As the new President of ESOMAR, what is your vision for the organization in the coming years?

Anne-Sophie Damelincourt: ESOMAR organization is essential for our Insight and Data industry to navigate in our fast-changing world. From my perspective, one of our key challenges is to remain strong and relevant for our stakeholders. My role and our role on Council with Esomar local team will be to empower members, ultimately advancing the profession. ‘Empowering you’ has been my claim during the campaign and I think it resonates strongly to our Members who are the very Heart of our association.

What excites you the most about taking on this leadership role?

ASD: I have been working in the Insight industry for more than 25 years and I joined ESOMAR as a member in 2007. I have been elected three times on Council between 2015 and 2021, I have been part of the Execo when I was the Treasurer. The organization brought me a lot and it is natural today for me to give back, serving our members, offering my vision and contribution. I also have a very good knowledge of the industry and of the organization. I am a passionate, dynamic and determined woman, definitively into action with a strong sense of collective interests and of ethics. I will lead the organization for and with our community.

ESOMAR and Latin America

How do you see ESOMAR’s role evolving in Latin America, and what are your main priorities for the region?

ASD: Latin America is a vast and diversified region with very talented people. ESOMAR is the largest global organization championing insight with more than 11 thousand members around the globe. Our richness and power come from our diversity in terms of people, societies, academics, businesses, practices, geographies, regulations. We must remain or become closer to everyone and this is even in a region which is far from Europe where ESOMAR has its headquarters. We must encourage collective intelligence and create an environment where diverse perspectives are valued as this fosters creativity and drives impactful solutions. I am convinced that the Latin America region can shine in this field with better connections and specific actions within the ecosystem between members, local associations, Latam ambassador with Urpi, representatives, academics, innovators, regulators,. Digitalization offers great opportunities to connect, to share knowledge and best practices. However, face to face presence remains strong to fully design together the best way to answer local needs. This is why I joined the Latam community here in Lima and I would like to share my gratitude for having me.

Are there any ESOMAR programs or initiatives that LATAM researchers should be particularly aware of during your period as a President?

ASD: ESOMAR has been organizing local events every year with the Latam conference for example as well as ESOMAR Connect online meets-up. We had one in Panama last week, one next week in Guatemala. ESOMAR is organizing many events which are not dedicated to Latam but which are very insightful for any region, this is one of ESOMAR strength. Every member or group of members can suggest initiatives which can be trully relevant for the region. As part of an association everyone can play a role. ESOMAR members and insights professionals can significantly contribute to the association’s goals, fostering a strong, collaborative and forward-thinking community that is well-equipped to face the challenges and opportunities in the insights field.

The Future of Insights and Market Research

In your view, what are the key trends shaping the future of the market research and insights industry?

ASD: The market research and insights industry is evolving rapidly due to technological advancements, changing consumer behaviors, and new data collection methods. Some key
trends shaping its future include:

• AI and automation helping to automate routine tasks, predict trends, and generate actionable insights faster and more accurately.
• The demand for real-time data is growing as businesses need immediate feedback for quick decision-making thanks to continuous data collection through apps, wearables, and online platforms
• The integration of various types of data (surveys, social listening, passive data,..) allows for a more comprehensive understanding of consumer behavior.
• Ethics to ensure transparency and consumer consent are key areas of focus to build trust with consumers.
• Understanding cultural nuances, regional preferences, and different market dynamics has become increasingly important for companies looking to serve diverse international markets.

As the market research industry continues to evolve, staying agile and adaptable to these trends is key for businesses looking to maintain a competitive edge in an increasingly complex and data-driven world.

Final Thoughts

What advice would you give to LATAM countries professionals who want to engage more with the global research community?

ASD: I am convinced that we are stronger together and into collective intelligence. I run a small business and ESOMAR impact has been massive in offering knowledge, its global network of highly talented and inspirational professionals. There are many ways to engage, through memberships, in presenting papers, offering webinars, participating to ESOMAR actions. I invite everyone to build connections with us, Council, team, representatives...

If you could share one message with the Latam research and insights community, what would it be?

ASD: I am very honored and happy to be in Lima with you all. It is such a pleasure to see you in person, this community is so inspirational and creative. My welcome as ESOMAR President was focused on the power of creativity, one of Latam region specific value added. Let’s offer it to the rest of the world!