A Legacy of Leadership: Celebrating Mitali's Transformative Journey with MRSI
Mitali bids farewell to MRSI. Her transformative leadership at MRSI has helped shape a stronger, more future-ready Industry Association, leaving behind a legacy of innovation, collaboration, and excellence.
Mitali built an accomplished global career through leadership roles at Liberty Global in Amsterdam, Tele2 in Stockholm, Vodafone Group in London, Vodafone India, Rediffusion DY&R, TNS, MODE, NFO, and MARG. After spending six years overseas, including roles beyond the insights industry, she explored second-career pursuits in Art History and ITES. Mitali’s journey with MRSI began in 2019, with no prior direct experience with the industry association, and she was quick to discover, "You can take the person out of market research, but you can't take market research out of the person." That enduring passion for the profession, combined with her diverse global leadership experience, proved invaluable in shaping her tenure at MRSI.
MRSI has always evolved with the changing times. When Mitali joined MRSI in 2019, and subsequently took on the role of Director General, MRSI was embracing technology, welcoming a new generation of professionals, and reflecting India's growing stature on the global stage. Her leadership helped accelerate this transformation, positioning the Society to meet the evolving needs of the Research & Insights community. Under her leadership, MRSI strengthened its position as the voice of India's Research & Insights industry through several landmark initiatives. A key milestone was the launch of the Indian Research & Insights Industry Report in 2021. Commissioned to provide a comprehensive and contemporary view of the sector, the study redefined the industry's market construct to include emerging areas such as Insights Analytics and international research and insights services delivered from India. The report established a credible benchmark, showcasing the industry's scale, growth, and expanding contribution to the economy.
The Sizing Report became a powerful tool for advocacy. In addition, the industry’s strong self-regulatory framework and adherence to the Code of Ethics has enabled us to successfully advocate for key exemptions under the Digital Personal Data Protection Act and establish the industry's unique identity across multiple ministries.
Mitali also played a pivotal role in strengthening strategic partnerships, expanding our flagship Annual Seminar and Golden Key Awards, and driving sustained growth in membership, participation, communications, and digital outreach. Throughout her tenure, she championed professionalism, operational excellence, and innovation—qualities that have become synonymous with MRSI today.
A defining moment during her tenure was her recognition as an Insight250 Legend in 2023 for making "a long-standing, indelible impact on the industry." The recognition reflected not only her distinguished global career but also the lasting contribution she made to advancing the Research & Insights profession through her leadership at MRSI.
While her professional accomplishments speak for themselves, it is Mitali's energy, vision, and ability to inspire others that have made an equally lasting impact. Her collaborative leadership and unwavering commitment have left an enduring mark on MRSI and on everyone who has had the privilege of working with her.
On behalf of the MRSI Managing Committee, the Secretariat, our members, and the wider Research & Insights community, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Mitali for her invaluable contribution. Her leadership has strengthened MRSI, amplified the voice of our industry, and created a lasting legacy that will continue to benefit future generations of professionals.
Thank you, Mitali, for your leadership, vision, friendship, and unwavering commitment to MRSI. We wish you every success, happiness, and fulfilment in the exciting journey ahead.
“As I took over from my predecessors, I quickly realized that the
true strength of MRSI lies in its Secretariat team. While the
Managing Committee is responsible for shaping the vision and
charting the future direction of the association, it is the
Secretariat that tirelessly drives the execution and brings those
plans to life.
It was indeed fortunate for MRSI to have Mitali at such a critical
stage in the association's evolution. Looking back at the journey
over the last four to five years, I can confidently say that
Mitali's leadership has made all the difference. Her commitment,
strategic thinking, and unwavering dedication have played a
pivotal role in strengthening not just the association, but also
the industry and the entire MRSI ecosystem.
The perspective shared here captures her contributions well, but
as President of MRSI, I would like to personally express my
heartfelt gratitude to Mitali for everything she has done for the
association. Her impact will continue to be felt for years to
come.
I wish Mitali every success in her future endeavors. I am also
confident that, even as she moves on to a new chapter, MRSI will
continue to benefit from her wisdom and guidance, and that she
will always remain a guiding force for all of us.”
- Nitin Kamat, President, MRSI | Chief Growth and Partnership
Officer, TAM Media Research Pvt. Ltd.