Andy Hicks focuses his research on telecommunications services, software, and business models, primarily in the emerging markets of EMEA. He coordinates IDC’s syndicated telecommunications research across Central and Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and Africa, especially contributing to EMEA Network Lifecycle Services, as well as IDC’s dedicated Middle East and African coverage. Hicks also performs custom research and addresses industry events.

Before joining IDC, Hicks was managing director at the National Research Exchange, an equity research and capital markets services firm, where he contributed to an innovative equity-offering analytics suite and developed the firm’s partner base. Previously, he provided both strategic consulting and application project management in the areas of mobile/wireless computing, corporate intranets, user experience, and web marketing. His clients included financial and telecommunications startups, bulge-bracket and regional investment banks, pharmaceutical companies, and major media companies.

Earlier, Hicks taught language and literature at Columbia University, where he earned an MA and MPhil in Russian literature. He also holds an AB in Russian studies from Amherst College. Hicks speaks English, Czech, and Russian, and has passed the United States FINRA Series 7 and Series 63 exams.