We are thrilled to announce that Rodriguez Ajabu, Head of Analysis and Reporting at Target SARL, has been selected as the recipient of the 2025 MRII Reg Baker Career Advancement Award, sponsored by Escalent. A resident of the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Rodriguez embodies the award’s spirit of professional growth, commitment to lifelong learning, and dedication to giving back to his community.
About the Award
Named in honor of Reg Baker, a passionate advocate for the market research profession and former Executive Director of MRII, this award recognizes individuals who demonstrate both aspirations for career advancement and a strong commitment to volunteerism. Sponsored by Escalent, a top research, data analytics, and advisory firm, the award provides the winner with full enrollment in the prestigious Principles of Market Research certificate course, offered by the University of Georgia and MRII.
This comprehensive course equips market research professionals with the knowledge, tools, and methodologies to excel in an ever-evolving insights industry.
Meet Rodriguez Ajabu: A Story of Dedication and Growth
Rodriguez’s professional journey began in 2009, when he worked as a sales agent for Vodacom Congo. His responsibilities included sales analysis, guiding field strategies, and identifying top-performing sales outlets. This early exposure to data analysis sparked his passion for statistics.
In 2012, Rodriguez transitioned into market research, joining Target SARL as an encoder consultant. Over time, he expanded his expertise to database management, data collection supervision, and advanced analytics. Today, he leads analysis and reporting efforts, ensuring impactful insights drive business strategies.
Recognizing the importance of continuous learning, Rodriguez recently completed the Analytics 1-2-3 courses, earning his certification in February 2024. The Principles of Market Research certificate represents the next step in his professional development, equipping him with cutting-edge methodologies and best practices.
Giving Back: A Commitment to Volunteerism
Rodriguez’s dedication extends beyond his professional achievements. In February 2024, he volunteered to train community radio stations in Katanga and Kasai on conducting media audience surveys. He led sessions on questionnaire design, sampling, data collection, and analysis—empowering local organizations to make data-driven decisions that enhance their programming and community impact.
Looking Ahead: The Path Forward
Rodriguez envisions a future as an international market research consultant, supporting both humanitarian organizations and commercial enterprises across Africa. From project design to program evaluation and market segmentation, his goal is to leverage insights to drive positive change.
“For me, the Principles of Market Research certificate course is one of the most important certifications for this profession,” Rodriguez told us. “I’ve had 2 colleagues complete their courses and I’m a witness to the transformation they’ve undergone in their approaches to setting up market research projects (rigor and efficiency). The Principles of Market Research certificate will not only strengthen my technical skills but also enhance my ability to lead impactful projects,” Rodriguez shared. “I’m excited to apply what I learn to help organizations achieve their goals with rigor and efficiency.”
Thank You to Our Sponsor: Escalent
This award wouldn’t be possible without the generous support of Escalent, whose commitment to advancing the market research profession continues to inspire growth and innovation. Their sponsorship ensures that professionals like Rodriguez can access world-class training and unlock new opportunities in their careers.
“Congratulations, Rodriguez, on winning the Reg Baker Career Advancement Award! Escalent is incredibly excited for all you will learn through MRII’s certificate course and for the career opportunities that await you,” said Melissa Sauter, CEO, Escalent. “Reg was a lifelong learner and ardent advocate for market research; it’s impossible to overstate the positive, lasting impact he had on the industry. Supporting this scholarship was the perfect way to honor his legacy. Good luck and enjoy!”
Please join us in congratulating Rodriguez Ajabu on this well-deserved recognition! We look forward to following his journey as he completes the Principles of Market Research certificate and continues to make a meaningful impact in the insights industry.
To learn more about the MRII Reg Baker Career Advancement Award and future application opportunities, visit the MRII website.
