Changes to Synovate's leadership


29 October 2009

SYDNEY — Global market research firm Synovate today announced two important changes to its senior leadership team.

Mike Cassidy has been appointed as Managing Director of Synovate's Australian research business, effective 1 January 2010. Cassidy will take over from Julie Beeck, in line with the company's growth strategy on the east coast. Cassidy is well placed for the role, having been with Synovate for four years and opening the Melbourne office in 2005, as well as previously taking on national roles to build key clients and practices.

"I am committed to strengthening our client-centric focus, our 'biggest small company' philosophy, and steering our business into a new phase of growth," said Cassidy. He will divide his time between the Sydney and Melbourne offices. Julie Beeck will continue to play a senior role in Synovate's business in Australia – managing and developing key client relationships and supporting the growth of talented researchers.

Brent Stewart, current CEO of Australia and New Zealand and the founder of Market Equity, has been appointed to a new global role – CEO Strategic Units. In this role, Stewart will oversee the following Synovate business units: Africa, Australia and New Zealand, Central / Eastern Europe and the Middle East, China, Japan, Latin America / Iberia and North and South Asia. Stewart will also continue to be CEO of Global Business Planning for Synovate.

"This new role is just another example of the opportunities for staff that exist within a truly global company like Synovate, in particular combining a global role with local management responsibility. I'm looking forward to the challenges that lie ahead as the global market research industry enters an exciting new phase of change," said Stewart.


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Lauren Robb
Marketing Communications Executive

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About Synovate

Synovate, the market research arm of Aegis Group plc, generates consumer insights that drive competitive marketing solutions. The network provides clients with cohesive global support and a comprehensive suite of research solutions. Synovate employs over 6,400 staff across 62 countries.

For more information on Synovate visit www.synovate.com.