He was previously vice president of client development in the same unit and replaces Arnie Schwartz, who was recently named president of the firm’s foodservice business.

Before joining The NPD Group, East (pictured) spent four years as marketing director at confectionery company Storck. Prior to his his spell on the clientside, he spent more than 15 years at research agency Information Resources.

Randall Smith, NPD’s group president for US food and automotive and Canada and Latin America, said: “Mark’s experience on both the client and supplier sides and deep understanding of the consumer goods arena will serve his food and beverage clients well.”

East will be based at the firms Rosemont, Illinois, office and the company is currently evaluating candidates to fill his previous position.