SMARI Hires to Build Bus Dev Function

US market research firm SMARI has appointed former Research Now and Precision Sample Vice President Pat Goodnight as VP of Business Development, a step change for the 40-year-old company which had previously focused on referrals.

Based in Fishers, Indiana, SMARI works for agencies and end clients in markets including consumer and retail, education, financial services, healthcare, manufacturing and not-for-profit, and prides itself on careful up-front analysis of business challenges to define research needs prior to commencing other work.

Goodnight worked most recently for a year as Director, Growth & Strategy for Kantar's Marketplace, and before that spent five years as a VP at Precision Sample. Earlier he spent nearly nine years at e-Rewards / Research Now as Sales Manager; Director Client Development; and latterly VP. In his new role he will be responsible for formulating and executing comprehensive business development strategies 'to identify untapped markets, foster strategic partnerships, and enhance the firm's client base'.

Company President Katie Ittenbach underlines the significance of the hire: 'In light of increasing sales and an ever-changing marketplace, SMARI has made a pivotal decision to expand operations and reach beyond our existing referral-only based work environment. Pat Goodnight brings with him the experience, professionalism, and client-first attitude that aligns not only with our future goals, but our culture. Pat marks the first addition of many we plan to bring into the SMARI family as the request for customized, boutique research services continue to challenge our capacity. We are excited for this new step and have complete confidence in Pat's ability to represent the brand and preserve the reputation that has been earned and demanded from our partners'.

The firm is online at www.smari.com .