Stéphane Truchi to Chair Ifop Board

Former Ipsos France Joint MD Stéphane Truchi is to become Chairman of the Executive Board of French market research and polling firm Ifop (Institut Français d'Opinion Publique).

He takes over the role of President and CEO in February from Laurence Parisot, who is stepping down in response to a company restructure designed to strengthen the firm's position in the digital and luxury goods markets. Majority shareholder Parisot will remain on the Executive Board, along with Olivier Bauby, Pierre Warin and Anne Pease.

Truchi joins with more than 21 years' MR experience gained in France, Europe, the US and Asia. Parisot commented on Truchi's appointment: 'Stéphane's arrival gives Ifop a new impetus. His expertise on trends and the sociology of consumers in France and throughout the world, and his exceptional skills in the luxury sector will provide further advantages for the company.'

Truchi announced his decision to leave Ipsos in December because of 'strategic differences' with Co-Presidents Didier Truchot and Jean-Marc Lech (www.mrweb.com/drno/news7702.htm ).

In 2007, Ifop posted turnover of Euros 35m. Headquartered in Paris with additional offices in Toronto, Buenos Aires and Shanghai, the firm is online at www.ifop.com.