Pulse Research announces leadership transition as 30-year veteran Brian Knapp acquires company from founder John Marling

PORTLAND, Oregon — Brian Knapp, a 30-year veteran of Pulse Research, has acquired the company from newspaper industry pioneer and founder John Marling. Marling will continue to serve the company in a senior adviser role.

The transition ensures leadership continuity for a firm that has been a cornerstone of media sales intelligence since 1985. It marks a shift from a founder-led era to a growth-focused strategy while retaining the founder's institutional knowledge.

The company will maintain its sales-first approach while building on its 40-year track record in media sales intelligence — developing new products for digital outlets and cross-platform advertising.

• Deep Roots: Founded in 1985 by John Marling, the company established itself by providing newspaper sales teams with the data needed to prove ROI to local advertisers.
• The Transition: Knapp joined the team in 1994. His three decades of experience provide a seamless handoff for existing clients.
• Strategic Continuity: By remaining a senior adviser, Marling will provide ongoing counsel and support for long-term strategic initiatives.
• Stability: The ownership change is an internal move designed to preserve the company’s culture and long-term client relationships.
• Long-Term Partnerships: In addition to Knapp, Pulse continues to retain the services of long-time partner, Sammy Papert, who has proudly represented the company for 20+ years.

Knapp has outlined three key expansion priorities:

1. Digital and Print Integration: Enhancing tools to help legacy media companies sell integrated cross-platform packages.
2. Broadcast Expansion: Scaling specialized research products for TV and radio sales teams to capture local market share.
3. Custom Research Growth: Leveraging a key partnership with Pioneer Utility Resources to deliver high-impact readership studies and custom member surveys for cooperatives. This provides proprietary data for specific, high-value organizations.

"Pulse has always been about empowering sales teams with the 'why' behind consumer behavior," says Brian Knapp. "John Marling built an incredible foundation and company. I am thrilled that he will continue to stay involved, ensuring our clients benefit from his decades of wisdom as we expand into new markets."

About Pulse Research:

Founded in 1985, Pulse Research provides consumer buying intent data and sales intelligence tools to media organizations across North America. The company helps local media outlets drive advertising revenue by connecting businesses with actionable audience insights. For more information, visit www.pulseresearch.com

Media Contact: Sammy Papert
Phone: 214-505-6420
Email: sammy@pulseresearch.com