SPINS taps Jay Margolis as new CEO

CPG data specialist SPINS has named Jay Margolis as its new CEO, succeeding Tony Olson.

Chicago-based SPINS, a leading provider of wellness-focused data and analytics for the consumer packaged goods industry, said Wednesday Margolis officially took the chief executive reins on Monday. He comes to the company from health information and clinical research firm IQVIA (formerly QuintilesIMS), where he was senior vice president and general manager of information solutions.

“I am excited to join SPINS as their new CEO and embark on this journey. It’s a great opportunity to work with a dynamic and innovative company that is revolutionizing data analytics and insights in the CPG industry,” Margolis said in a statement. “The dedication and passion of the SPINS team, along with their commitment to promoting healthier choices, is impressive. Together, we will explore new areas, leverage advanced technologies, and unlock new opportunities.”

With Margolis’ appointment, Olson will transition to the role of chairman, SPINS reported, adding that he remains the company’s largest individual investor.

Jay Margolis, new CEO of SPINS / Photo: SPINS

“My role is to lead SPINS towards a bright future, driving growth, fostering collaborations, and accelerating innovation,” Margolis added. “We’ll not only explore adjacent markets but also pioneer new territories, creating significant opportunities for consumers and businesses.”

SPINS noted that Margolis brings over two decades of leadership experience in the health care sector, spanning service, sales, marketing, product, delivery, portfolio strategy, and mergers and acquisitions. He spent more than 11 years at IQVIA, where in his most recent role he led a fast-growing data and technology business, overseeing more than 1,300 employees across multiple geographies.

Previously, he held consulting roles at health and pharmaceutical information specialist IMS Health, which in 2016 merged with pharmaceutical outsourcing company Quintiles to form QuintilesIMS, renamed IQVIA a year later. Before that, he served in business operations at drugmaker Eli Lilly and as a consultant for Braun Consulting.

“I am immensely proud of what SPINS has accomplished over the past 25 years, as we have sought to lead the growth of the broader health and wellness ecosystem and aid connectivity between retailers, brands and consumers through our critical market insights and intelligence,” Olson stated. “I am looking ahead to the further expansion of SPINS’ mission and am thrilled that a leader of Jay’s caliber has joined the team to steward SPINS through its next phase of growth. He brings valuable perspective, experience and passion to the role.”