LinkedIn is opening up its data to researchers and academics. The goal is to create economic opportunities globally with the data. Their blog post also notes that the data will be de-identified to preserve the privacy of their members.

Gartner's EVP of research and advisory, Peter Sondergaard, steps down from his role. According to the SEC, Sondergaard resigned due to behavior "inconsistent with [Gartner's] code of conduct." For Gartner's part, there was reportedly no disagreement between himself and the company around the business practices. Michael Harris will replace Sondergaard.

Another new application using Blockchain: earn tokens for real reviews. Petar Slovic and Ivan Ciric launch the blockchain version of Yelp, called Review.Network. They are initially onboarding companies who will use the market research component of their system.

ResearchBods reports a 41% growth in revenue through acquiring some large, new contracts with the Telegraph, Hearst and others. Former Nielsen CFO, Jamere Jackson, takes on the same role for Hertz Global Holdings.

Brian Kober will now serve as SVP and Chief Strategy Officer for Neustar.

Steve Livingstone will lead Nepa's new Global Sports Division as Practice Lead. Nepa is a brand tracking research firm.

Brennan Lake will now be Program Director of Cuebiq's "Data for Good" initiative. FIND US ONLINE: www.happymr.com Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/pg/happymrxp Twitter: @happymrxp Instagram: @happymrxp LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/happymarketresearch/