Our History

MDRG Milestones

1994

Sondra Brown founded Market Dynamics Research Group (MDRG) in New Orleans, LA, conducting the firm's first Mystery Shopping study with First Commerce Bank.

2005

MDRG stood alongside the New Orleans business community as it rebuilt in the wake of Hurricane Katrina.

2018

  • MDRG launched its proprietary WHOLE MIND™ methodology, a research approach rooted in behavioral economics that bridges System 1 and System 2 thinking.
  • MDRG was named one of Fortune Magazine’s 100 Fastest Growing Inner City Businesses.

2024

  • MDRG celebrated 30 years with clients and staff in New Orleans.
  • MDRG was honored with CityBusiness’s Best Women Owned Business award.

2026

After more than 30 years as President, Sondra Brown welcomed Sachin Parate and New York Growth Partners as MDRG's new leaders.

Sondra Brown

MDRG Founder

A note on Sondra Brown

When Sondra Brown founded Market Dynamics Research Group (MDRG) in 1994, she set out to build a different kind of insights firm, one grounded in both analytical rigor and a deeper understanding of human behavior. Over the next three decades, that vision shaped MDRG into a nationally respected research and insights partner. A hallmark of the firm’s work is the WHOLE MIND™ approach, which helps clients better understand the interplay between rational and emotional decision making. What began with a single client grew into a diverse national portfolio spanning healthcare, CPG, technology, and financial services. Sondra played a pivotal role in advancing the importance of consumerism and Voice of the Consumer in healthcare by helping organizations respond to evolving expectations with greater insight and empathy.

Throughout her career, she has remained deeply committed to the insights industry. “I feel fortunate to have spent my entire career in one industry, and I still love the work,” she says. That commitment shaped a culture defined by intellectual curiosity, strong client partnerships, and a belief that people always come first. Sondra’s decision to step away reflects a thoughtful and deliberate transition. “Our extraordinary team, excellent client relationships, and ambitious growth strategies ensure the continued success of MDRG,” she says. Her legacy is evident in the firm’s enduring client relationships, its distinct approach to understanding consumers, and the culture she established over more than 30 years of leadership.

Employer of the Year from the Business and Professional Women of Jefferson Parish

University of New Orleans’ UNO 25 inaugural class of high-impact businesses​

Reflecting on the past 30+ years, I am deeply grateful for the people who have been part of this journey. From our talented team to our supportive clients and partners, each of you has played a role in shaping our story. To female entrepreneurs, my advice is to trust your vision, embrace challenges as opportunities, and remember that resilience and a strong network are your greatest assets.

— Sondra Brown, founder of MDRG

Are You Ready?

Click to take your business to the next level.

Sachin Parate

As President & CEO of MDRG, Sachin leads the firm with a focus on trusted client partnerships, strong delivery, and sustainable growth. He brings more than 15 years of experience building and growing businesses, leading teams, and shaping products and strategy for large multinational companies.

Sachin has spent his career helping organizations solve complex business problems through customer insight, thoughtful strategy, and disciplined execution. His background includes leadership roles supporting large-scale consumer products and growth initiatives, with deep experience in financial services. At MDRG, he is focused on strengthening the firm’s reputation as a trusted research partner and helping clients turn insight into clear business action. Outside of work, Sachin enjoys adventure sports, travel, and time with his family.