Newgate Hires Kantar's Clay for New Research Practice

In London, PR group Newgate Communications has set up a Market and Social Research practice, led by Kantar's former Head of Qual, Dan Clay.

Newgate has a team of more than 280 staff who manage a portfolio of communications services for public affairs, corporate reputation, community engagement, consumer PR, crisis, and investor access management; along with design and branding. It already has a business called Newgate Research in Australia, staffed by a team of seventeen qual and quant consultants who also work in the broader Communications business.

The new London division focuses on delivering research to inform decision-making around strategy, communications and engagement. Using techniques such as in-depth interviews, focus groups, ethnography and observation, and online communities, the practice offers expertise in areas such as opinion and behavioural reputation, stakeholder relationship, policy and strategy, and employee research. It will also serve as a stand-alone agency that clients can access independently.

Clay (pictured) joins with nearly twenty years' experience as a social and market researcher. Most recently, he served as Head of Qual at WPP's government and public sector advisory business Kantar Public, overseeing a team of eighteen researchers, and advising on innovation and best practice across Kantar Public's eleven international offices. Before this, he worked for EdComs, Action Research Limited, the Tavistock Institute, The Policy Research Bureau and Barnardo's. Commenting on the appointment, CEO Emma Kane said: 'Newgate Research has been fundamental to the success and growth of our Australian business. The decision to roll out the offer in the UK is a key element of our strategy and we are delighted that Dan will spearhead the drive in this market, with the full might of the Australian resource behind him'.

Web site: www.newgatecomms.com .