CHOICE has appointed Monique Perry, the former Managing Director at Nielsen, as its new CEO.

Commencing her role on 20 April, Ms Perry joins as the organisation’s first female CEO since Louise Sylvan finished as CEO in 2003.

Ms Perry succeeds Ashley de Silva, who left the role in February after two years with the organisation, following the announcement of his new position as CEO of Guide Dogs NSW. Fiona Jolly has been interim CEO since Mr de Silva’s departure.

CHOICE Board Chair Nic Cola says the consumer advocacy group is excited to announce the new appointment.

“Monique has an impressive track record in consumer research and insights,” he says.

“[She] brings more than 30 years of leadership experience across consumer data, commercial strategy, partnerships and innovation, and joins CHOICE with a profound appreciation for what independent, evidence-based advocacy means to the Australians who rely on it.”

The appointment follows a national search and is said to mark a proud moment for CHOICE as it enters its seventh decade of service.

Ms Perry says CHOICE has earned something rare and precious, the unconditional trust of Australian consumers, built over 60 years of fearless, independent advocacy.

“My commitment is to honour that legacy, deepen that trust, and ensure CHOICE remains the most credible voice in the room wherever decisions affecting consumers are being made,” she says.

“I have spent 30 years understanding consumers and what media they engage with and what products and services they buy. There is no more important place to bring that understanding than an organisation dedicated entirely to serving the consumers behind the data.”