Harte-Hanks (HHS) CEO Philpott Resigns; Sees Severance Charge

Harte-Hanks (NYSE: HHS) announced the appointment of Douglas C. Shepard as interim President and Chief Executive Officer, effective immediately. Mr. Shepard, the company's Chief Financial Officer, succeeds Robert A. Philpott, who has stepped down as President and CEO, as well as from the Company's Board of Directors, to pursue other interests. The Board has formed a search committee to identify a successor CEO.

"On behalf of the entire company, I would like to express my gratitude and appreciation to Robert for his service and dedication to Harte Hanks during his tenure," said Christopher Harte, Chairman of the Board. "Under Robert's leadership, the business has successfully refocused its core activities and developed a corporate strategy to become a leader in smarter customer interactions."

Mr. Harte continued, "Doug is a talented executive who has proven his leadership over the course of more than seven years with the Company, and we have the utmost confidence in his ability to execute on our strategic vision. Combined with the support of a strong senior leadership team, I know that this will be a smooth and seamless transition. Given the strength of our service offerings and our current client portfolio, I feel confident about our long term potential to drive growth and shareholder value."

Mr. Shepard, 47, will continue in his role as CFO while assuming the interim responsibilities of the CEO's office. Since joining Harte Hanks as CFO in December 2007, he has played a key role in defining the Company's strategic vision, building its M&A strategy and streamlining the organization to improve its operational efficiencies. Prior to joining the Company, Mr. Shepard served as Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer of Highmark's vision holding company, HVHC Inc., and as Executive Vice President, Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Secretary of Visionworks, Inc. (formerly Eye Care Centers of America, Inc.).

Related to this transition, the Company expects to incur a pre-tax severance charge of approximately $2.0 million to $2.5 million.

You May Also Be Interested In

• Sparton, Glen Eagle ink joint venture deal for Ontario silver mine
• Invivyd names chairman Marc Elia as CEO ahead of VYD2311 data
• Polaryx Therapeutics names Will Charlton as chief medical officer