InterMedia, the global research-based consultancy, announced Thursday the appointment of Dr. Ali Fisher as Associate Director of Digital Media Research, effective immediately. Dr. Fisher is widely known for his work in identifying how information flows through both online and offline communities, and the influence of relationships on human behavior.
Dr. Fisher will be based in InterMedia’s London, U.K. office and lead the ongoing development of the company’s global digital research practice, providing clients with comprehensive and targeted digital media insight that drives decision-making. InterMedia’s digital research practice builds clients’ understanding of social media and other digital information environments, and how to engage successfully with people active in them.
“Ali brings unique approaches to analyzing online communication patterns, in social media and elsewhere. His published and blog writings have become must-reads for members of the strategic communications community as well as for practitioners of constructive engagement in other domains,” said Robert T. Coonrod, CEO of InterMedia. “We are very excited that Ali will help lead our expanding team of analysts covering new and social media strategies,” Coonrod added.
For the past four years, Ali Fisher has been Director of Mappa Mundi Consulting, working as an independent public diplomacy strategist and researcher. He specializes in providing insight to enhance organizational strategy and evaluation through network analysis. Ali is also an honorary research fellow in the School of Clinical and Experimental Medicine at the University of Birmingham, U.K., where his research has focused on the flow of health-related information through digital platforms. In addition, his research has been used in projects focused on law enforcement and counter-terrorism.
Prior to 2008, Ali directed the Counterpoint think tank at the British Council and was a lecturer in International Relations at the University of Exeter, U.K.. He completed a Masters in U.S. Intelligence Services and his PhD at the University of Birmingham. In addition to his commercial work, Ali regularly produces work for academic publication.
Dr. Fisher is co-author with InterMedia COO Susan Gigli of the article, “Networked Audiences,” which appeared in the Summer 2011 issue of The Channel magazine. The article features 10 essential tips for media companies seeking to engage with audiences in the digital world.