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Follett Takes Top Job at Authentic Response
Sampling and data collection provider Authentic Response has hired former SSI leader Jim Follett as its Chief Executive Officer, to replace Matt Blumberg as CEO; and has announced the closing of a funding series.
The Series A preferred equity investment round was led by Sutter Hill Ventures in Palo Alto, California. Terms were not disclosed.
Follett is a current Board member of Authentic Response, and was SSI's CEO for two years before his departure this January. He previously held global management positions at NOP Worldwide and senior leadership roles at Information Resources, Inc., and brings process re-engineering experience in addition to MR and consulting nous. He also worked client side in sales and marketing at Nestle Waters (Perrier), Cadbury Schweppes (Motts), General Foods and P&G. He has an MBA from Columbia University and a BA from Williams College.
Blumberg, who is Chairman & CEO of Return Path Inc., has served as the interim Chairman & CEO of Authentic Response since its spin-out from Return Path in 2008. He will retain the role of Chairman of the Board of Authentic Response, and says of the latest news: 'Jim's management experience in the global market information services industry coupled with the capital infusion from Sutter Hill Ventures will enable Authentic Response to more aggressively pursue its growth path as an independent and emerging player in the global online panels and market research market.' Co-President Jeff Mattes says the combination of news is 'a major milestone' for the company.
Authentic was founded in 1998 and its offerings include the Authentic Recruitment panelist recruitment technique, patented Double Opt-in permission standards, and Authentic Validation techniques aimed at ensuring legitimate, secure survey responses.
Web site: www.authenticresponse.com .
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