Westat Executive and Leadership Team

August, 2026

Leadership Overview

Westat has 6 executives leading key functions including strategy, technology, financial oversight, information systems, and operational management.

Committed to delivering high-quality research and analytics, Westat empowers government agencies and private businesses through rigorous study design and data collection services that drive informed decision-making across diverse sectors.

Leadership Roles at Westat

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

    Scott Royal, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Westat, directs the overarching strategic vision for the organization. Focusing on survey research and complex study design, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that all professional services meet the rigorous standards required by government agencies. By aligning internal analytics capabilities with evolving market demands, Royal fosters innovation across the entire enterprise. This leadership role involves managing high-level client relationships and maintaining the employee-owned culture that defines the firm. Through the optimization of research methodologies, the President & Chief Executive Officer drives significant growth in the public sector. Scott Royal maintains a focus on operational excellence, ensuring that data collection initiatives remain accurate and impactful. By coordinating with the board and senior leadership, the President & Chief Executive Officer secures the long-term stability of the company while expanding the reach of research services across North American markets.
    Scott Royal

    Daniel Gilden - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Daniel Gilden, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Westat, manages the execution of large-scale data collection projects and business development initiatives. While the President & Chief Executive Officer oversees the firm's broader research portfolio, Gilden specifically targets the expansion of analytics services for local government clients. This leadership role requires constant collaboration with department heads to ensure that study design protocols remain at the forefront of industry standards. By streamlining internal processes, the President & Chief Executive Officer enhances the efficiency of research delivery. Daniel Gilden drives the adoption of advanced statistical models to provide actionable insights for diverse business partners. Through the management of complex project lifecycles, the President & Chief Executive Officer ensures that all deliverables align with the mission of providing high-quality professional services. Gilden maintains a focus on scaling operations to meet the increasing demand for data-driven solutions within the public sector landscape.

    Oswaldo Holguin - Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer

    Oswaldo Holguin, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer at Westat, manages the financial health and fiscal strategy of the organization. Overseeing budgeting, financial reporting, and resource allocation, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer ensures that the firm maintains the capital necessary to support large-scale research projects. This leadership role involves analyzing market trends to guide investment in new analytics capabilities. By monitoring the financial performance of various business units, Holguin provides the insights required for strategic decision-making. Oswaldo Holguin drives the implementation of financial controls that protect the interests of the employee-owned company. Through the management of fiscal operations, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer supports the expansion of services into new regional markets. By coordinating with the executive team, the Senior Vice President & Chief Financial Officer ensures that all business activities remain aligned with long-term profitability goals and corporate sustainability.
    Oswaldo Holguin

    Olubusola Afolabi - President

    Olubusola Afolabi, the President at Westat, oversees the operational execution of specialized research programs and client engagement strategies. Focusing on the delivery of professional services, the President ensures that project teams meet the specific requirements of local and federal government partners. This leadership role involves managing the day-to-day operations of key research divisions to maintain high standards of quality. By fostering a culture of excellence, Afolabi drives the successful completion of complex study designs. Olubusola Afolabi maintains a focus on client satisfaction, ensuring that all research outcomes provide actionable value. Through the coordination of cross-functional teams, the President supports the firm's ability to handle diverse and challenging projects. By aligning operational activities with the company's mission, the President ensures that the organization continues to provide high-quality research and analytics services that address the needs of the public sector.

    Christopher Coulthard - Chief Technology Officer

    Christopher Coulthard, the Chief Technology Officer at Westat, architects the digital infrastructure necessary for advanced survey research and data analytics. Overseeing the development of proprietary software tools, the Chief Technology Officer ensures that all research platforms remain secure and scalable. This leadership role involves integrating emerging technologies into existing study design workflows to improve data accuracy. By managing the technical teams, Coulthard drives the modernization of data collection systems used by government agencies. Christopher Coulthard maintains a focus on cybersecurity and data integrity, which are critical components of the firm's service model. Through the implementation of cloud-based solutions, the Chief Technology Officer supports the company's ability to handle massive datasets efficiently. By aligning technical capabilities with business objectives, the Chief Technology Officer ensures that the organization remains a leader in research technology. Coulthard facilitates seamless collaboration between IT departments and research teams to optimize project outcomes.

    Dwight Feanny - Vice President & Chief Information Officer

    Dwight Feanny, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer at Westat, directs the information systems and data management strategies that underpin the company's research services. Overseeing the enterprise-wide information architecture, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer ensures that data collection tools are reliable and accessible. This leadership role involves managing the digital transformation of internal processes to improve operational efficiency. By implementing robust data governance policies, Feanny protects sensitive information handled on behalf of government clients. Dwight Feanny drives the adoption of new information technologies that enhance the speed and quality of analytics delivery. Through the management of technical support teams, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer ensures that all staff have the tools required for high-level research. By aligning information systems with the firm's broader business goals, the Vice President & Chief Information Officer supports the company's mission to provide accurate and timely data solutions.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Westat Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Westat?
    Westat is led by Scott Royal (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Daniel Gilden (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 Scott Royal (President & Chief Executive Officer), Daniel Gilden (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.