Stephan Shakespeare

Stephan ShakespeareFounder & CEO

One of the pioneers of internet research, Stephan has been the driving force behind YouGov’s innovation-led strategy. He is the CEO of YouGov, having previously been both Non-Executive Chair (2023-25) and CEO (2000-23). He was Chair of the Data Strategy Board for the Department of Business, Innovation and Skills 2012-13 and led the Shakespeare Review of Public Sector Information. He is a commissioner for the Social Metrics Commission, an independent charity dedicated to helping UK policy makers and the public understand and take action to tackle poverty. Stephan has an MA in English Language and Literature from Oxford University.

Article
As River Island announces store closures, what do the public think of the brand?
YouGov CEO Stephan Shakespeare explores public attitudes to River Island.
02 Feb 2026
Article
IKEA’s new campaign puts the spotlight on quality – but what do consumers think?
YouGov's Stephan Shakespeare explores IKEA's quality-based messaging.
29 Jan 2026
Article
As easyJet marks its 30th anniversary, how is the budget airline faring with the public?
The budget carrier marked its 30th anniversary this year - here's what consumers think of it.
24 Nov 2025
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JD Wetherspoon set to open 15 new pubs across the UK – and the public may welcome their arrival
J D Wetherspoon is set to open new pubs - here's what the public think of the chain.
12 Sep 2025
Article
Coca-Cola looks to sell Costa – but where does the coffee chain stand with the UK public?
A look at Costa's reputation among the UK public ahead of a possible sale.
12 Sep 2025
Article
Toby Carvery cut down an ancient oak tree – did the public roast them for it?
If a tree falls in the woods...well, you know the rest.
22 May 2025
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As Monzo reportedly mulls a UK float, how is the fintech bank perceived by the UK public?
Can we really call Monzo a “challenger” any more? In April, the digital bank passed the 11 million customer mark – making it the 7th-largest bank in the country by customer numbers.
20 May 2025
Article
Primark’s CEO resigns under a cloud – but has it affected opinion of the high street brand?
Stephan Shakespeare's City AM column explores the reputational fallout (or lack thereof) from Primark's CEO's resignation.
17 Apr 2025
Article
Have Trump tariffs affected willingness to invest in the stock market?
YouGov CEO Stephan Shakespeare looks at British investors in his weekly City AM column.
17 Apr 2025
Article
abrdn re-rebrands to aberdeen - but what do people think of the change?
The vowels are back as the investment firm changes its name again.
20 Mar 2025

As River Island announces store closures, what do the public think of the brand?

IKEA’s new campaign puts the spotlight on quality – but what do consumers think?

As easyJet marks its 30th anniversary, how is the budget airline faring with the public?

JD Wetherspoon set to open 15 new pubs across the UK – and the public may welcome their arrival

Coca-Cola looks to sell Costa – but where does the coffee chain stand with the UK public?

Toby Carvery cut down an ancient oak tree – did the public roast them for it?

As Monzo reportedly mulls a UK float, how is the fintech bank perceived by the UK public?

Primark’s CEO resigns under a cloud – but has it affected opinion of the high street brand?

Have Trump tariffs affected willingness to invest in the stock market?

abrdn re-rebrands to aberdeen - but what do people think of the change?