PluggedIN Appoints Managing Partner

In the US, PluggedIN, which specializes in building online communities for market research and consumer insights, has appointed research veteran Mark Stapylton as Managing Partner, to help guide the strategic vision and direction of the company.

Rochester, NY-based PluggedIN was founded in 2006 by Benjamin Werzinger, Matthew Foley and Lail Brown. Last September, their firm updated its social networking platform to enable online qual researchers to track what their target audiences are sharing across the social media landscape.

Stapylton, who joins with more than 25 years' experience in research-based consulting on both sides of the Atlantic, specializes in brand and communications strategy, consumer insights, innovation and ideation, and brand engagement.

Most recently he worked as SVP of Brand and Communications at Harris Interactive, prior to which he held senior positions at Wirthlin Worldwide, Knowledge Networks, Research International, AC Nielsen, Burke International and Young & Rubicam.

In his new role, Stapylton will work alongside the partners to help define new products and service offerings, and to develop and manage new accounts.

'Mark brings so much to the table in terms of providing strategic vision for PluggedIN and helping our clients realize the full value of community based research,' stated Werzinger.

Web site: www.pluggedinco.com .