J.D. Power executive honored

Westlake Village resident James D. Power IV, whose company has become synonymous with customer satisfaction and service, was recently honored for his career achievements by the University of San Diego.

Power, who earned a bachelor's degree in history from the school in 1985, will receive the Author E. Hughes Award for Career Achievement. Hughes was the school's president from 1971 to 1995.

As a child, Power helped tape quarters to customer surveys to help build the company founded by his father. He is now executive vice president of international operations at J.D. Power and Associates, leading the development of international strategy for the marketing information firm, which measures customer satisfaction throughout Asia, Europe and North and South America.

In 2005, J.D. Power and Associates became a business unit of The McGraw-Hill Cos.

In 2005, Power co-authored the firm's first book "Satisfaction," which helps to explain the secrets behind building profitable companies through excellence in customer service.

Power is also active in raising funds to fight muscular sclerosis and serves on the board of regents of California Lutheran University.

"James exemplifies USD's commitment to excellence and public service," said Jack Kelly, the school's director of alumni relations. "We are very proud to honor him." J.D. Power and Associates is at 2625 Townsgate Road in Westlake Village.