Novaction Co-founder Joins Nielsen

Jacques Blanchard, the Co-founder and President of marketing and research consultancy Novaction, has jumped ship to join rival, Nielsen-owned BASES, which provides research and forecasting services to the consumer packaged goods sector.

Blanchard helped found Novaction in Paris in 1972, and led the company until its acquisition by Ipsos in 2001 when it was renamed Ipsos-Novaction. Latterly his role involved setting up synergies with other Ipsos companies, with a particular focus on product development.

In his new role, he will advise on strategy and product development.

Tim Willke, Global President of BASES, says Blanchard's 'reputation and experienced leadership are outstanding.' Blanchard says he has been impressed with Nielsen's 'willingness to invest' in the BASES services for some time.

The firm is headquartered in Covington, Kentucky and has an additional 21 offices throughout North America, Europe, Latin America and South Africa. Web sites are at www.bases.com and www.nielsen.com.