Parks Associates Promotes Key Leaders to Enhance Strategic Growth and Client Engagement

Parks Associates Strengthens Leadership Team for Strategic Growth

Parks Associates has announced significant leadership promotions, marking a critical transition as the company prepares to celebrate its fortieth anniversary in 2026. This move sees Jennifer Kent elevated to Senior Vice President and Principal Analyst, Kristen Hanich becoming Senior Director, and Michael Goodman stepping into the role of Director of Entertainment. These advancements are set to enhance the firm’s strategic growth and refine its approach to client engagement amid a rapidly evolving market landscape.

New Leadership Roles

Jennifer Kent: Senior Vice President and Principal Analyst

Previously the Vice President of Research, Jennifer Kent's promotion signifies a broader role in aligning Parks Associates' core functions. As she transitions to Senior Vice President and Principal Analyst, Jennifer aims to enhance cross-department strategies and client interactions. Her extensive industry knowledge and leadership experience will be pivotal in refining the strategic direction of the firm.

In her own words, Jennifer states, “We are entering a transformative period where artificial intelligence (AI) is challenging long-standing assumptions and creating new opportunities nearly overnight. Parks Associates' forty-year foundation gives us the historical context and analytical depth needed to help clients understand where the market is heading.” This forward-thinking perspective showcases Jennifer's commitment to guiding the firm through a pivotal period of innovation and opportunity.

Kristen Hanich: Senior Director

Kristen Hanich's promotion to Senior Director recognizes her consistent dedication to supporting major client initiatives and delivering valuable research outputs for Parks Associates. In this new role, she will manage the firm’s Analyst Inquiry service and further develop research in broadband, connected health, and multifamily sectors. Kristen's enhanced responsibilities also include shaping new offerings as the company expands its focus on AI applications and the dynamic small business ecosystem.

Michael Goodman: Director of Entertainment

Michael Goodman joins the ranks as Director of Entertainment, equipped with a wealth of experience in digital media, streaming, and content distribution. Goodman will take charge of expanding the entertainment research portfolio, particularly the Streaming Video Tracker service, which tracks nearly 400 North American streaming services. His expertise is crucial for helping clients navigate the ongoing disruptions and transitions within the media and entertainment sectors.

Strategic Alignment and Future Outlook

These promotions reflect a deliberate alignment aimed at improving relationships with clients and enhancing the ability to connect Parks Associates’ research expertise with its strategic growth ambitions. Elizabeth Parks, President and CMO of Parks Associates, emphasized the importance of this leadership alignment, stating, “Parks Associates is well positioned for its next chapter. Jennifer, Kristen, and Michael each play a critical role in advancing our mission and delivering meaningful value to our clients.”

This strategic positioning comes at a crucial time as businesses adapt to emerging technologies and changing consumer behaviors. Parks Associates recognizes the pressing need for insights that drive decision-making in the face of innovative challenges brought forth by AI and other transformative technologies.

Celebrating 40 Years of Excellence

With a dedication to understanding emerging consumer technology trends and a solid reputation in market research and consulting, Parks Associates has established itself as a leader since its inception in 1986. As it approaches its fortieth milestone, the company reaffirms its commitment to providing valuable insights across various sectors, including home security, streaming video, and connected health.

The firm hosts several key events annually, including the CONNECTIONS™ conference, the Connected Health Summit, and the Smart Energy Summit, bringing together industry leaders to share insights and shape the future of technology.

As Parks Associates embarks on this pivotal next chapter, the leadership changes aim not only to enhance internal strategies but also to deepen client relationships, ensuring the firm continues to deliver superior value and insights in a transformative era.

For additional information about Parks Associates, visit www.parksassociates.com.