GQR Names New COO as Briskin Steps Down

Howard Briskin, the COO of Washington, DC-based polling firm Greenberg Quinlan Rosner (GQR), is stepping down from his position at the end of the month. CFO Ismael Savadogo will take over the COO responsibilities while continuing in his existing role.

The company specializes in using data and research to inform communications strategies - whether for 'presidents of countries or presidents of corporations'.

Since joining in 2006, Briskin has helped expand the firm to Europe and the Middle East, working from its London base. In this role, he has led development and management of GQR's operating units including fielding, programming and production of client research, while also directing all the support functions including finance, IT, HR and marcoms.

Prior to joining, Briskin was VP and General Manager of Video Monitoring Services of America, where he was responsible for the company's interests in Washington, DC and the surrounding Mid-Atlantic region. He began his career with Sallie Mae, marketing the company's financial services to money center banks.

In a statement, GQR said it was announcing Briskin's departure with a 'mix of regret and appreciation', while thanking him for his many contributions to the firm.

Prior to joining in 2004, Savadogo served as the Controller for Hytech Industries, and he held financial management positions at Salomon Smith Barney and AIG in New York City.

Commenting on the appointment GQR CEO Stan Greenberg said: 'Ismael's proven leadership will serve us well as we continue to grow and achieve new heights. We are thrilled about the experience he brings to our operations at such an exciting time for Greenberg Quinlan Rosner.'

Meanwhile Mouhamad Alem has been promoted to the role of Chief Information Officer, in charge of the firm's IT function and sharing management of the field and programming operations.

Web site: www.greenbergresearch.com .