NEW YORK—Research firm Reputation Institute (RI) has named new leadership and raised a second round of investment from growth equity firm Catalyst Investors.

The organization, best known for its RepTrak reputation management offering, has appointed Jamie Bedard as global president and CEO. Bedard replaces Jonathan Ewert, who moves to a role serving on the RI board of directors.

Bedard, who previously worked at Aberdeen Group and Benchmarking Partners, joined the RI's leadership team earlier this year. As CEO, he will lead the global organization, and continue to unify RI’s advice, research, measurement, analytics, sales, and marketing teams.

In addition to overseeing RI operations globally, Bedard will lead the organization’s expansion and growth after a second round of investment by growth equity firm Catalyst Investors.  

Specifically, the company plans to broadly expand its research offerings; rationalize its product and services portfolio to drive enhancements in customer value; install new integrated financial systems to enhance operations and business management; invest in marketing operations and personnel; hire key leadership to drive business growth and expansion; and establish an EMEA business hub in London. 

“Reputation Institute is a world renowned and well-respected resource and is the leading independent global expert on corporate reputation measurement and management,” said Tyler Newton, partner with Catalyst Investors.

“We see rapidly increasing demand for expertise, research and training around corporate reputation topics worldwide. There is an incredible growth opportunity in this market and we are confident that our investment will enable the company to further strengthen its position and expand its client base.”