31 January 2008

NICOSIA — Leading global market research company Synovate today announced the appointment of Managing Directors in Saudi Arabia and the Czech Republic.

Jerome Vadot has been named Managing Director of Synovate Saudi Arabia. Based in Jeddah, Vadot has been Commercial Director at Synovate's Saudi business since September 2007. Previously General Manager in Bulgaria for the Roullier Group, a world leader in agrochemicals and food products, Vadot also served as Area Export Manager for the BIC Group in Central/Eastern Europe, North Africa and the Middle East. He began his career with TDK Recording Media, rising to the post of Director of Operations in France.

Kurt Thompson, Synovate CEO for Central/Eastern Europe and the Middle East, welcomed Vadot's appointment. "Synovate has long been the industry leader in Saudi Arabia. Jerome's extensive management experience and commercial leadership skills will be a great asset as we further strengthen our position in this key market."

Simon Duval-Kieffer has been appointed Managing Director for the Czech Republic. Duval-Kieffer moves to Prague from Synovate South Korea, where he spent six years, first as Project Director and later as Associate Director. This time was split by a two-year posting at Synovate Malaysia. Duval-Kieffer has extensive experience across industries, including FMCG, tobacco, telecommunications and automotive, and he managed several key accounts in Asia Pacific.

Thompson says Duval-Kieffer's appointment comes as the company invests in more staff and new facilities in Prague. "The Czech market holds tremendous potential, and with Simon's experience in fast-growing Asian markets, we're confident he will make the most of those opportunities."

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