Nielsen names Chicago office global headquarters site

Nielsen's Global Consumer Business, an international data and measurement firm, has announced its Chicago office will serve as the company's global headquarters starting in 2021.

The company's office at 200 W. Jackson Blvd — home to many of Nielsen's senior leaders — is operational LEED Silver certified, and through its new status as the company's headquarters, the location will continue to allow Nielsen to "collaborate with technology partners, attract top talent and better serve (its) consumer packaged goods and retail clients," according to a company news release. The company was launched in Rogers Park in 1923.

“Nielsen was founded in Chicago, Arthur Nielsen revolutionized consumer measurement and data here, and becoming a separate company is an opportunity to return our headquarters back to our original home," David Rawlinson, CEO of Nielsen’s Global Consumer Business said in the news release. "We believe that Chicago is a great place to build upon our technology lead and continue to disrupt the industry. Coupled with Chicago’s long-standing reputation for diverse talent, establishing our headquarters here will help us on our journey to define the future of e-commerce measurement and data, and build a world-class culture.”

Nielsen currently employs around 30,000 people in nearly 100 countries globally, including more than 600 at the Chicago office, the news release states. The company plans to create at least 50 new jobs during the next two years and work to create internship and training opportunities through partnerships with underserved universities, colleges and communities.

“This announcement is an exciting win-win for Nielsen and the entire Chicago region,” Chicago Mayor Lori Lightfoot said in the news release. “By establishing its headquarters here in our city, Nielsen is furthering its position in the most economically diverse city in the nation, enabling it to better lead this fast-moving and cutting-edge industry, all while helping develop our city’s own incredible workforce talent pipeline for years to come.”