Mike Gorton has had a long and varied career in market research to date. He was Managing Director of ACNielsen in South Africa for 11 years and, in 1986, was appointed Managing Director of the UK business and Regional Director for Northern Europe. More recently, Gorton Acted as Vice-President for ACNielsen Media Research services in Europe, the Middle East and Africa. He also served as Managing Director of the prestigious South African Advertising Research Foundation from 1995 to 1997.

Mike Kirkham, Chief Executive designate, Taylor Nelson Sofres, commented, "The appointment of Mike Gorton will add considerable management experience to our team, and we are looking forward to working with him. Those who know Mike in our industry have always had the highest praise for his achievements and we consider ourselves fortunate to have secured his services."