Karl Schmidt, President

Karl Schmidt founded Consumer Insights, Inc. in 1995 and functions as a key contact for clients on all studies associated with the company. Over the past thirteen years, Karl has accumulated extensive experience in research design, project management, multivariate analysis, focus group moderating, strategic analysis, and consulting with a broad spectrum of clients. Equally adept at experimental qualitative designs and complex quantitative studies, Karl is known for his creative problem solving ability and passion for actionable research designs. Prior to forming Consumer Insights, Inc. he gained valuable experience in the client, agency, and primary supplier sectors of the market research field via analytical and management positions at Chevrolet Motor Division, Leo Burnett Advertising, and Stander Research Associates. Karl holds a B.A. is Advertising from Michigan State University and a M.B.A. for Oakland University.

Melanie Sorlien, Project Manager

Melanie has mastered each of the fundamental components of research projects through a series of progressively responsible positions. She joined the staff of a major researching firm upon completing here B.A. from Marygrove College. Melanie managed field interviewing, supervised the phone room, and designed and implemented a new data processing system that brought the function in-house for the first time. After training her successor, she assumed responsibilities as a project coordinator on all types of studies for major clients. At Consumer Insights, Inc., Melanie ensures quality control and oversees the performance of all firms subcontracted to provide project support. Melanie is also an experienced discussion group leader.

Cara Bozyk, Research Analyst

Cara, our newest professional staff member, joined us from the services industry, with a specialization in International Finance. In her previous position at Comerica Bank, she analyzed the financial structure of international business credit applications and provided recommendations for acceptance or rejection based of the company's financial soundness. Since joining Consumer Insights, Inc. in January 1998, Cara has built a strong knowledge base in project management, in-depth interviewing, data analysis, and report writing. Cara holds dual B.A. degrees in Economics and Spanish from Kalamazoo College.