Westat Executive and Leadership Team

July, 2026

Leadership Overview

Westat has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, technology, information systems, finance, and operations.

Driven by a commitment to data-driven insights, Westat provides professional services to government agencies, businesses, and local governments, focusing on survey research, study design, analytics, and data collection to inform critical decisions.

Leadership Roles at Westat

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Daniel Gilden
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Scott Royal
  • Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer - Oswaldo Holguin
  • President - Olubusola Afolabi
  • Chief Technology Officer - Christopher Coulthard
  • Vice President & Chief Information Officer - Dwight Feanny
  • Daniel Gilden - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Daniel Gilden, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Westat, directs the company's overall strategic vision and operational execution. Gilden oversees all business units, ensuring alignment with the company's mission to provide high-quality research and analytical services. This leadership role involves driving growth initiatives and fostering innovation across the organization. By focusing on client needs and market trends, Daniel Gilden ensures Westat maintains its position as a trusted partner for government agencies, businesses, and local governments. The Chief Executive Officer's purview extends to financial performance, resource allocation, and long-term sustainability, guaranteeing the company's continued success in survey research, study design, analytics, and data collection.

    Scott Royal - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Scott Royal, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Westat, guides the company's strategic direction and operational framework. Royal is responsible for the comprehensive management of Westat's service offerings, including survey research, study design, analytics, and data collection. This executive position involves cultivating strong relationships with key stakeholders and government agencies to expand market reach. By championing operational excellence, Scott Royal ensures the delivery of impactful solutions that address complex societal and business challenges. The Chief Executive Officer's leadership ensures robust financial health and strategic growth, solidifying Westat's reputation for integrity and expertise in research services.
    Scott Royal

    Oswaldo Holguin - Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Oswaldo Holguin, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Westat, directs the company's financial strategy and fiscal management. Holguin oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and financial reporting, critical for Westat's service delivery to government agencies and businesses. This executive role involves managing capital resources and ensuring financial compliance across all projects, from survey research to complex data analytics. By maintaining strong financial controls and optimizing resource allocation, Oswaldo Holguin supports the company's sustainable growth and operational efficiency. The Chief Financial Officer's expertise ensures the financial integrity of Westat's operations, underpinning its ability to undertake large-scale study designs and data collection initiatives.
    Oswaldo Holguin

    Olubusola Afolabi - President

    Olubusola Afolabi, the President at Westat, drives strategic initiatives and operational oversight for key business segments. Afolabi focuses on enhancing Westat's service portfolio, which includes advanced survey research, meticulous study design, and comprehensive data collection services for government and commercial clients. This leadership position involves fostering cross-functional collaboration to ensure the successful execution of complex projects. By championing client-centric solutions, Olubusola Afolabi strengthens Westat's market presence and reputation for delivering high-impact analytical insights. The President's role is integral to maintaining operational excellence and advancing the company's mission in providing critical research and data services.

    Christopher Coulthard - Chief Technology Officer

    Christopher Coulthard, the Chief Technology Officer at Westat, architects the company's technological infrastructure and innovation roadmap. Coulthard directs the development and implementation of advanced data collection platforms and analytical tools, crucial for Westat's survey research and study design services. This role involves evaluating emerging technologies to enhance data integrity and processing efficiency. By ensuring robust cybersecurity measures and scalable IT solutions, Christopher Coulthard supports the secure handling of sensitive data for government agencies and businesses. The Chief Technology Officer's strategic oversight ensures that Westat's technological capabilities remain at the forefront, enabling sophisticated analytics and data-driven insights for clients nationwide.

    Dwight Feanny - Vice President & Chief Information Officer

    Dwight Feanny, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer at Westat, manages the company's information systems and digital resources. Feanny oversees the integration of technology solutions that support Westat's core operations in survey research, study design, and data collection. This leadership position involves ensuring the reliability, security, and efficiency of all IT infrastructure across the organization. By optimizing data management systems and network operations, Dwight Feanny enhances the company's capacity to deliver complex analytical services. The Chief Information Officer's focus on technological advancement ensures seamless data flow and robust support for Westat's diverse client base, including government entities and private businesses.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Westat Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Westat?
    Westat is led by Daniel Gilden (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Scott Royal (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Oswaldo Holguin (Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Westat’s executive team?
    The executive team of Westat includes leaders such as Daniel Gilden (President & Chief Executive Officer), Scott Royal (President & Chief Executive Officer), Oswaldo Holguin (Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Westat have?
    Westat has 6 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Westat’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Westat includes roles such as President & Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, President, Chief Technology Officer.