Synovate's Nigel Jackson Dies in Skiing Accident

Nigel Jackson - Group Head of both the Qualitative and Public Sector, Charities & Transport teams at Synovate in the UK - was tragically killed in an accident while skiing in the French Alps on Christmas Day.

Jackson, aged 43, was skiing with friends in Chamonix Mont Blanc when he was separated from the group and failed to meet at the pre-arranged rendezvous point.

His body was recovered on Boxing Day in Le Tour Col de Balme - an area normally known for its gentle ski runs, but which experienced very bad weather conditions on Christmas Day.

Originally from Liverpool, Jackson joined Synovate in 2008, having previously worked for Dr Foster Intelligence as Director of Patient Analysis and Development and as a Research Director at Opinion Leader Research.

He is described by members of his teams as 'a very passionate researcher, brimming with enthusiasm and energy, and a supportive, dedicated, massively hard working leader'.

Synovate UK CEO Jill Telford announced in a statement that Jackson's death is 'a huge loss to the industry' and said that the news has been a great shock to everyone in the firm.

'Nigel had a level of commitment, kindness of heart and positivity of spirit that was unmatchable,' Telford stated. 'He was loved by many, and this awful news has left us - particularly his teams - in a state of shock and upset.'

Sue Phillips, CEO Synovate Censydiam described Jackson as a 'smiling, enthusiastic and compassionate person' who truly cared about the people he worked with; while Ged Parton, CEO Global Capabilities, called him 'witty, funny and caring'.

'His naughty sense of humour was always close to hand and freely shared,' added Parton. 'Nigel was a natural radiator - he projected warmth and energy to all who knew him and those with whom he came into contact.'