Yankee Group Unifies its Research Teams.

BOSTON -- Hecht Assumes CRO Role; Ayvazian Takes on Strategy

Yankee Group today announced management changes, as the firm launches its first year under new ownership with a commitment to growth amid exciting transformations in communications technology.

Brad Hecht, an industry

veteran who led Yankee Group's research organization from 2002 to 2004, is reassuming the role of Chief Research Officer effective immediately. The firm's three global research groups--telecommunications/wireless/mobile, consumers/media/entertainment and IT--will unite under Hecht.

"As CRO, Brad is chartered with integrating Yankee Group's research teams to collaboratively respond to customer demand for greater flexibility and expanded product offerings that align with their timely needs," said Emily Nagle Green, Yankee Group President and CEO.

Long-time Yankee Group executive and thought leader Berge Ayvazian is taking on a new role in the firm: Chief Strategy Officer. Ayvazian will oversee the firm's new growth mission, lead several new product initiatives, catalyze critical new research activities and form a company advisory board later this year. "I am delighted to undertake the position of Chief Strategy Officer at this time in the firm's evolution," said Ayvazian. "Aligning Yankee Group with our clients to help them visualize, navigate and generate value from current and future business opportunities is more critical now than ever before."

At the end of the month, after 12 years at Yankee Group, Executive Vice President Rob Rich will be leaving to pursue other interests. "While it has been a wonderful run for me at Yankee Group and I have thoroughly enjoyed working with clients around the globe, I look forward to the next phase of my career," said Rich. "I also want to extend my congratulations and best wishes to Brad and Berge, who I believe are excellent choices for these important new positions." Rich's responsibilities will be shared by seasoned Yankee Group research executives Eileen Eastman, Zeus Kerravala, Keith Mallinson and Boyd Peterson.

YANKEE GROUP (www.yankeegroup.com)

At Yankee Group, we help our clients succeed by providing the knowledge, tools and support they need to make winning decisions when business opportunities intersect with technology solutions. In business more than 35 years, Yankee Group knows the importance of listening to and understanding the needs of our clients. We deliver value through authoritative, innovative and flexible research products and consulting services. Whether challenges are rooted in planning, executing or optimizing the use of technology, Yankee Group's world-renowned analysts transform market intelligence and practical, real-world experience into valuable decision support. Headquartered in Boston, Yankee Group research and sales staffs are located around the world, including North America, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, Latin America and Asia-Pacific.