A hugely popular figure in the media research sector, James Smythe worked at Carat, GCap/Global Radio, BRMB, Kantar and UKOM before starting his own successful business. We are all profoundly sad to learn that James has died after an illness and we extend heartfelt condolences to his family.
In early 2010, Smythe succeeded Peter Bowman as UKOM General Manager. With a strong industry background, Smythe had previously headed sport research at BMRB and market research at GCap. By 2013, UKOM and Comscore unveiled tablet metrics in response to the pressing commercial need to quantify multi-device media consumption.
UKOM Commercial Board Chair, Bill Murray, said: “James arrived at UKOM, alongside Douglas McArthur, at the start of a ground-breaking journey. Our industry knew it wanted online audience measurement sorted, but had little idea how to sort it. James brought to the task determination, expertise, vision and liberal doses of wisely applied patience. And since 2009 I know there is a long list of agencies, brands and media owners who have much to thank him for as they joined the list of happy clients of his Culture of Insights business."
Ian Dowds, UKOM CEO, said: "Our thoughts are with James' family. Today's UKOM owes an enormous debt to his contribution in those first formative years."
Iain Jacob, UKOM Chair, said: "James was one of those people that gave more than he took and brought humour, positivity and humanity to every occasion."
