(KANSAS CITY) – Barkley has hired Jim Eschrich as director of research. In his new role he will oversee all qualitative and quantitative research for Barkley clients including 24 Hour Fitness, Helzberg Diamonds, Lee Jeans, the March of Dimes, Minute Rice and Sonic Drive-In. Eschrich replaces Allise Garrison, consumer research director, who departed for Assurant in late 2008. Jim will report to Chris Dickey, SVP, director of insight and impact, Barkley.

Eschrich formerly served as research program manager for merchandising at Hallmark’s worldwide headquarters in Kansas City, Mo. In his nine years with the company, he guided consumer research in everyday cards, new product and discovery and mass channel. Prior to Hallmark, Eschrich served as research analyst at Arnold Worldwide, Boston, Mass., working on clients including McDonald’s and John Hancock. Eschrich was a member of the 1987 U.S. National Bobsled Team and is a flight instructor for single-engine airplanes and a commercial-rated glider pilot.

“We are incredibly pleased to have Jim at Barkley,” said Brian Brooker, CEO and chief creative officer, Barkley. “Jim’s career and personal achievements speak for themselves. His perspective will be an essential part of Barkley’s consumer research practice.”

About Barkley:
Barkley is the largest employee-owned agency of its kind. Founded in 1964, the company has 325 partners offering a full range of marketing communications services including advertising, public relations, cause branding, sponsorships and events, relationship marketing, social media, design, media planning and buying, motion graphics, research and interactive marketing. Barkley has offices in Kansas City, Pittsburgh and Philadelphia, with additional field offices across the nation.