13.01.2026

Katie McClintock joined Human8 last year, bringing over two decades of regional leadership experience from prominent commercial roles at global organizations including PepsiCo, Mastercard, and Kantar. Her new appointment is central to a broader regional strategy designed to deepen client partnerships, strengthen cross-market collaboration, and further strengthen our partnerships, enabling clients to accelerate marketing outcomes through the powerful integration of advanced AI and human insight.

“It is an honour to step into this role and build upon the profound legacy Maz established,” said McClintock. “The key to future growth lies in combining advanced AI capabilities—which allow for speed and scale—with deep, authentic human understanding. This dual focus ensures we deliver transformative, culturally relevant strategies and future-proof insights to our clients across the APAC region.”

Maz Amirahmadi expressed full confidence in the transition: “Katie’s impressive track record and strategic lens make her the ideal leader for Human8’s future in APAC. Her deep understanding of the market research landscape and commitment to client success will ensure we continue to deliver the quality and clarity our clients and teams rely on.”

This leadership transition is immediately supported by a new, streamlined regional structure designed for maximum market impact:

Jason Spencer expands his role to Head of Greater China, overseeing Mainland China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan.

Daniel Teixeira is promoted to Head of Southeast Asia & Australia (SEAA), combining these key markets to enhance cross-border opportunities.

Karen Khao has been appointed as the new Head of Hong Kong. Karen brings over 25 years of strategic insights experience, including senior leadership roles at GfK, Kantar Added Value, and Nielsen. Her deep commercial and local expertise is instrumental in realising the growth ambitions of the Greater China region.

“I am delighted to join the Human8 team at such an important stage of our journey in Asia,” said Karen, “Our focus on blending AI capabilities with deep human insight is highly relevant in today’s landscape. I look forward to working with our talented team in Hong Kong to deliver the clear, consultative strategies that help our clients navigate their most important business challenges.”

“This new structure allows us to move faster and with greater focus for our clients,” McClintock added. “We are leveraging our global Insight community expertise, underpinned by the Square community platform. We are already engaging deeply with the markets, connecting with clients across the region to launch our What matters 2026 consumer trends report on the recalibration of human identities, the first step of our primary strategic roadmap for generating culturally relevant, actionable growth strategies.”

Learn more about our upcoming client events via wearehuman8.com/inspiration/events.