Angus Reid Group, a leader in market research and public opinion polling, is proud to announce the launch of its new Public Affairs division, led by Jennifer Birch as Executive Vice President and Managing Director, Public Affairs North America. Joining Jennifer is Senior Consultant Chris Martyn, who brings over 30 years of public affairs and market research expertise to the team.
With over two decades of experience in public affairs and market research, Birch brings a wealth of expertise and a global perspective to the organization. Her career encompasses significant roles in France and Canada, spanning the supplier side, client side, and government sectors.
Bridging perspectives to deliver transformative solutions
Throughout her career, Birch has demonstrated a unique ability to integrate citizen and consumer perspectives, developing practical, holistic solutions for a diverse clientele. She has guided multinationals, banks, and airlines through transformative events, including high-profile mergers, and has played a pivotal role in shaping economic policy and enhancing service delivery for various departments of the Government of Canada and its key agencies.
Joining Birch and ARG is Chris Martyn, a seasoned public affairs expert with over three decades of experience. Martyn most recently served as Chief Research Officer for Ipsos Public Affairs (2000–2022), where he oversaw thousands of domestic and international research programs spanning CX, brand/reputation, communications, issues management, and crisis management.
An expanding suite of services
“We are thrilled to re-ignite our Public Affairs division under Jennifer’s leadership” says CEO Angus Reid. “Jen’s innovative approach align perfectly with our commitment to providing insight with integrity—unbiased, dependable data of the highest caliber—ensuring our clients can make fully informed, confident decisions.”
Birch and Martyn will focus on delivering solutions that integrate citizen and consumer perspectives; bridging the gap between public affairs and market research.
Birch highlights three critical areas where public affairs plays an increasingly vital role:
- Bridging brand and reputation: Supporting organizations in defining and delivering on their values to exceed consumer expectations.
- Navigating the convergence of consumer and citizen: Addressing issues like climate change and equity, which increasingly influence consumer behavior.
- Integrating market research and public affairs: Providing a holistic view of socio-political-economic dynamics to empower impactful decisions.
A partner for the present and future
“The pace of change in the private sector has now permeated the public sector, rendering traditional patterns of policy creation and implementation obsolete,” said Birch. “I am excited to lead this division at Angus Reid Group, a legendary name in public affairs, as we strive to amplify objective, data-driven dialogue free from partisanship and sensationalism.”