Ad Veteran Replaces Morris in Arbitron Chair

In the US, the Board of Directors at radio ratings giant Arbitron has elected advertising veteran Philip Guarascio as its Non-Executive Chairman, replacing the firm's former CEO and President Stephen Morris.

In January, Morris was replaced in his executive capacity by Michael Skarzynski, but he stayed on as Non-Exec Chairman of the Board and as an advisor during the handover period.

Guarascio worked for 21 years at New York advertising agency Benton & Bowles. During his career, he also spent 15 years as the VP of Corporate Advertising and Marketing at General Motors, where he commanded one of the largest media budgets in the US until leaving in 2000.

Guarascio has served on Arbitron's Board since 2001. In addition, he has been Chairman of the Board and CEO of PG Ventures since 2000; served on the Board of Papa John's International since 2003; and been a Consultant for the William Morris Agency since 2001. He also served in a senior advisory capacity with the National Football League from 2000 to 2006.

'Phil's impressive career, vast experience and industry expertise continues to be incredibly valuable for the company,' said Skarzynski. 'As Arbitron evolves, we will continue to rely on Phil's leadership and guidance as we work to enhance our existing services, and forge ahead in research and development.'

Since Skarzynski joined the firm, he has initiated a number of strategic changes including scrapping Owen Charlebois' role as President, Technology, Research and Development, and creating three new senior executive positions as part of a shake-up designed to facilitate effective decision-making. He also announced redundancies for around 110 of Arbitron's 1,086 full-time employees, along with a program of cost-cutting in non-employee related areas.

Web site: www.arbitron.com .

All articles 2006-23 written and edited by Mel Crowther and/or Nick Thomas, 2024- by Nick Thomas, unless otherwise stated.

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