AN internationally-successful author and former chairman of award-winning Yorkshire advertising agency, Paradigm, has joined York-based research and marketing agency Questions Answered as a non-executive director.

Chris Knight will advise the board on strategic direction and further growth of the company which recently moved from Tower Street into much larger premises in St George's Place.

Mr Knight, author of The Hiram Key, which was published in 40 countries, built up Paradigm into the Advertising Agency of the Year in the Cream Awards of England and Wales in the year 2000.

Having trained as a graphic designer he worked in agencies in the private sector before starting Paradigm.

He is also a full member of the Market Research Society.

He said: "I am excited about the appointment because Questions Answered is at such a crucial stage of its development and is moving into some very innovative areas of market research."

Mr Knight was referring to attempts by Questions Answered to gather information from hundreds of thousands of teenagers, whose views might not otherwise be heard, for use in the marketplace. Mr Knight will spend two days a month advising managing director Peter Harrington and his board on strategy and development.

Mr Knight said: "It's a particularly enjoyable role because the open philosophy within the company allows me to work with all staff.

"A typical non-executive role normally confines you to working only with the directors.

Mr Harrington said: "We are all delighted that Chris has decided to join us because his experience and knowledge of growing an agency is vital if we are to succeed with our ambitious growth plans."

Updated: 09:49 Friday, July 02, 2004