Walker's remit will also cover innovation and new service development, in addition to client development and management.
He has 14 years of research and marketing experience and has worked in agency and consultancy roles in the UK and Australia.
Most recently, Walker held a board director position at Nunwood where he was responsible for establishing and managing the company's Film Productions business.
Colin Auton, Ci director, said: "I'm very excited about Richard's appointment, and looking forward to his contribution to the team at Ci Research.
"His background, experience and enthusiasm fit perfectly with both our core business philosophy and our plans for expansion. Richard is the first of several high-profile appointments we have planned for this quarter."
Ci Research works for clients in the public, petro-chemicals and financial sectors including multi-national companies such as RSA, Bayer and Huntsman.
Walker said: "Joining Ci Research was an easy decision for me.
"It is my challenge to make sure the industry hears a lot more about the fantastic work being produced by this talented, results-focused agency. And it's one I'm going to relish."