Charles Kennedy has been named senior vice president of research at ABC.
Mr. Kennedy will be responsible for ratings analysis and forecasts, brand and program research and providing support for sales, marketing, syndication and affiliate strategies. In addition, he will look closely at cross-platform consumer behavior and digital, advertising and marketing initiatives using Disney’s Ad Lab research facility.
Mr. Kennedy joins ABC Television from market research firm DYG, where he worked for seven years. Before that, he worked at Fox Broadcasting, rising from manager of research to vice president of program research during his 12 years there. He also worked at Fries Entertainment and Lorimar Telepictures.
Mr. Kennedy will be based in Burbank, reporting to Peter Seymour, executive VP of strategy and research for Disney Media Networks.
“Charles’ outstanding track record in television research, along with his proven expertise evaluating social trends, makes him highly qualified for this key research position at the ABC Television Network,” Mr. Seymour said. “His appointment further enhances our network’s position as a research leader in broadcasting and other television platforms.”