Westat Executive and Leadership Team

Scott Royal, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Westat, directs the overarching strategic vision and operational trajectory of the firm. Overseeing the delivery of complex survey research and data collection services, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures alignment with the needs of government agencies and commercial clients. This leadership role involves managing the employee-owned structure while fostering a culture of analytical excellence. By prioritizing innovation in study design, Scott Royal maintains the competitive position of the organization within the research industry. The President & Chief Executive Officer coordinates with the board to execute long-term growth initiatives and maintains high standards for professional service delivery. Through consistent focus on operational efficiency and client satisfaction, the executive secures the reputation of the firm as a leader in data-driven insights across North American markets.

Oswaldo Holguin, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Westat, directs the financial strategy and fiscal health of the employee-owned organization. Overseeing budgeting, financial reporting, and resource allocation, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer ensures that the firm maintains the capital strength required to support extensive research operations. This leadership role involves managing financial risk and optimizing the cost structure to enhance profitability across all service lines. By providing strategic financial guidance, Oswaldo Holguin enables the firm to invest in new analytical capabilities and talent. The Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer collaborates with the executive team to align fiscal planning with long-term business objectives. Through rigorous financial oversight and planning, the executive secures the economic sustainability of the firm while supporting its mission to provide high-quality professional services.

Olubusola Afolabi, the President at Westat, leads specific business divisions focused on expanding the reach of professional research services into new market segments. Overseeing the development of client relationships and the execution of strategic partnerships, the President ensures that the firm remains responsive to the needs of local governments and private sector entities. This role involves driving business development initiatives and identifying opportunities for growth in specialized research areas. By fostering a culture of client-centric service, Olubusola Afolabi strengthens the market position of the firm. The President collaborates with other senior leaders to refine service offerings and improve the delivery of data collection and analytics solutions. Through the management of key business functions, the executive drives revenue growth and enhances the overall impact of the firm in the professional services industry.

Christopher Coulthard, the Chief Technology Officer at Westat, architects the digital infrastructure and technological frameworks necessary for advanced data collection and analytics. Overseeing the development of proprietary research platforms, the Chief Technology Officer ensures that the firm utilizes cutting-edge tools to process complex datasets efficiently. This leadership role involves integrating secure, scalable systems that support the diverse requirements of government and commercial research projects. By driving digital transformation initiatives, Christopher Coulthard enhances the capacity of the organization to deliver high-impact analytical results. The Chief Technology Officer collaborates with other executive leaders to align technology investments with the strategic goals of the firm. Through the implementation of robust software solutions, the executive secures the technological foundation required for sustained growth and innovation in the competitive research services landscape.

Dwight Feanny, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer at Westat, manages the information systems and data security protocols essential for protecting sensitive research assets. Overseeing the governance of enterprise data, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer ensures that all information technology operations comply with strict regulatory standards required by government agencies. This role involves optimizing network performance and maintaining the integrity of the analytical infrastructure used for large-scale studies. By implementing advanced cybersecurity measures, Dwight Feanny safeguards the intellectual property and client data managed by the firm. The Vice President & Chief Information Officer works closely with the technology team to ensure seamless integration of information systems across all business units. Through proactive management of the digital environment, the executive supports the operational stability and reliability of the firm.

Huaqing Zhao, the Deputy Director at Westat, manages critical research operations and supports the execution of large-scale data collection projects. Overseeing the implementation of complex study designs, the Deputy Director ensures that project teams meet rigorous quality standards for government and business clients. This role involves coordinating cross-functional teams to optimize data analytics workflows and improve project delivery timelines. By refining research methodologies, Huaqing Zhao directly impacts the accuracy and reliability of the insights provided to stakeholders. The Deputy Director collaborates with senior leadership to align operational capabilities with evolving market demands for professional research services. Through meticulous oversight of project lifecycles, the executive drives operational excellence and supports the broader mission of the firm in providing actionable data solutions across diverse regional sectors.