ARF Hires Todd Powers as Chief Research Officer

The ARF has appointed long-time IBM exec Todd M. Powers, Ph.D. as its Chief Research Officer, starting at the end of the month.

Powers has worked at the computing giant since 1998, most recently as Director of Brand and Advertising Research in its Market Insights organization. His experience includes running his own research and consulting firm, along with analyst positions in the private and public sectors and serving as an adjunct faculty member at Duke University's Fuqua School of Business; a combination the ARF says will enable him to work well with its diverse key audiences.

His new role includes leading the association's work on advertising ROI, data analytics, digital measurement and social media, and the production of roadmaps for improving complex decision-making.

Former CRO Joel Rubinson announced he was stepping down from the role around seven weeks ago. The association has recently announced two high level appointments: the full-time return of Bill Cook as EVP - Research and Standards last month and media research veteran David Marans as EVP of Media in July.

President and CEO Bob Barocci says the appointment marks 'a big day for the advertising research industry'. He explains: 'Todd brings a unique skill set to this critical industry leadership role that includes a passion for quality rigor rooted in his academic background; a full understanding of the ingredients of successful buyer-seller partnerships from his research consulting days; and very importantly, perspective on today's challenges through his last twelve years working where the rubber meets the research road at IBM, one of the 'smartest advertisers on the planet'!'.

Founded in 1936 and based in NYC, the ARF's members include more than 400 advertisers, advertising agencies, associations, research firms, and media companies. Web site: www.thearf.org .