Cohen was known in the industry for transforming Scarborough into a multifaceted research company that captured consumer behavior information and media usage data on the local market level. Under his leadership, Scarborough became a successful joint partnership between The Nielsen Company and Arbitron, Inc., and expanded its client base to include local media companies, advertising/media agencies and sports teams and leagues. The company also achieved Media Rating Council accreditation for its signature services and expanded the measured local markets to more than 100 during his tenure at Scarborough. Cohen spent 16 years as president before going on a medical leave of absence in November 2009.
Cohen served as president of the Market Research Consortium, chair of the Council of American Survey Research Organization and was a member of the board of directors of Marketing Research Institute International. Prior to Scarborough, Cohen held leadership positions at Yankelovich Partners and The Los Angeles Times among other companies.
Scarborough is in the process of establishing a memorial fund for a yearly internship in Cohen’s honor. An academic at heart, Cohen was known for tirelessly pursuing new learning opportunities for himself and believed everyone should have the opportunity for higher education. He received his undergraduate degree from University of New York at Stony Brook and his graduate degree from Columbia University.