DVJ Insights appoints Stefan Bliekendaal as Global Director of Research and Excellence

Utrecht, 4 September 2025 - DVJ Insights is proud to announce the appointment of Stefan Bliekendaal as Global Director of Research and Excellence. With more than 15 years of experience in research, data, and insights leadership, Stefan brings a strong track record in marketing effectiveness, innovation, and team leadership. His arrival marks an important step in further strengthening DVJ’s international research excellence and commitment to delivering actionable insights for brand growth.

Stefan has built his career on a deep curiosity about consumer behaviour. He began at GfK before moving to research agency Epiphany RBC, where he spent almost a decade leading multiple research and innovation teams and contributed to the company’s growth as part of the management team. Most recently, Stefan was Head of Data, Tech & Insights at IPG Mediabrands, where he bridged research excellence with the rapidly evolving media landscape. Alongside his professional work, he currently chairs the Consumer Insights Taskforce at VIA Nederland.

“Research is invaluable when it delivers stories that guide brands and accelerate decisions,” says Stefan. “DVJ Insights has been doing this for years with a talented team that brings insights to life through curiosity and a relentless focus on quality. As Global Director Research & Excellence, I look forward to creating even more impact for our clients on an international scale – driven by innovation, relevance, and passion.”

Marieke van Echtelt, Global Managing Director at DVJ Insights, comments, “We are delighted to welcome Stefan to DVJ. With Stefan joining, we are not only strengthening our leadership team with a highly driven insights professional but also positioning ourselves for future growth and industry developments. We are confident that his addition will help accelerate our ambitions in supporting our clients in achieving growth.”