Hill and Knowlton Strategies launches Research and Data Insights division

Hill and Knowlton Strategies has announced the launch of a new business unit that will focus on the provision of data analytics and research insight services.

The new organisation, Research and Data Insights, will be headquartered in the US and comprises 12 research centres around the world, with Hill and Knowlton's global vice-chairman Dr Peter Zandan acting as its chair.

It will provide Hill and Knowlton clients with analytical data that can be used to establish strategic and effective communications with their key stakeholders, thus helping them navigate a "challenging public environment".

According to the agency, the need for data analytical services is on the rise due to the growing prevalence of social media and the implications of using such sites as communications platforms.

Jack Martin, the company's chairman and chief executive officer, said: "Hill and Knowlton Strategies understands that research and measurement are fundamental to everything we do and that every assignment should be driven by and founded on research."

The firm was rebranded to Hill and Knowlton Strategies last month in order to reflect its new focus on providing strategic communications advice.