JD Power Hires Auto Industry Veteran

In the US, JD Power and Associates has appointed auto industry veteran Finbarr O'Neill as Senior Vice President and General Manager of International Operations.

Formerly CEO and Vice Chairman of auto software solutions firm Reynolds and Reynolds, in his new role O'Neill will lead JD Power's development throughout Asia Pacific, Europe and Canada. Prior to joining Reynolds and Reynolds, he was Co-Chairman, President and CEO of Mitsubishi Motor Sales North America; General Counsel at Hyundai; and Executive with Toyota Motor Sales USA. He has a BA in Political Science from Columbia University, an MA in Business Administration from California State University, and a law degree from Fordham University School of Law.

'Finbarr understands the unique challenges and opportunities faced by both manufacturing and professional services industries,' said JD Power President Steve Goodall. 'His legal background, professional services experience, and keen understanding of the international marketplace will help us as we aggressively grow our presence in the global marketplace to the benefit of our clients.'

During his career, O'Neill, who is a past board Chairman of the Association of International Automobile Manufacturers, has received numerous awards including being a three-time Automotive News All-Star winner and the BrandWeek 2001 Marketer of the Year.

He replaces Jamey Power, who will be taking on the role of Senior Vice President and Strategic Advisor on 1 April.

Headquartered in Westlake Village, California, JD Power is online at web site www.JDPower.com .