Kodak Names New Executive Chairman; CEO Jeffrey Clarke Steps Down
Jeffrey J. Clarke, former CEO of Kodak
The board of directors of Eastman Kodak Company announced the appointment of Jim Continenza as the company's new executive chairman, effective immediately. Continenza, who has served as chairman of Kodak's board of directors since 2013, will continue as board chairman while also assuming the responsibilities of Jeffrey J. Clarke, who is stepping down after nearly five years as CEO.
In his role as board chairman, Continenza, 56, has led the company's efforts to improve its capital structure, execute strategic M&A transactions and drive investment in growth engines. He brings robust experience and a proven track record guiding several leading, innovative technology companies through transformations.
"I am thrilled to build upon our Board's strategic vision and become an integral part of day-to-day operations as the company continues to execute on its previously announced initiatives,” Continenza said. “Importantly, I look forward to helping Kodak build long-term value for shareholders as we continue to deleverage our balance sheet, increase operational efficiencies and maximize the potential of our key growth drivers. I'd like to thank Jeff for his strong leadership and I'm optimistic about the future of Kodak given our team, our assets and the opportunities ahead."
Kodak's leadership team and Board will continue to focus on the company's current strategic initiatives, including:
- Executing on the sale of the Flexographic Packaging Division (FPD), a business that has demonstrated high growth.
- Completing efficiency actions expected to result in $40 million of annualized savings and improved liquidity.
- Driving Kodak's key growth areas of SONORA Process-Free Plates, enterprise inkjet, workflow software and brand licensing, while continuing to maximize value in print systems, film and advanced materials.
- Committing to growth in Motion Picture film, having seen 32 Oscar nominations for films shot on film in 2019.
Former CEO Clarke added:
It was a privilege to lead Kodak during a time of transition and [I] am pleased to leave the company in a position of strength after the execution of the agreement to sell our Flexographic Packaging Division. The Board and I mutually agreed that now is the time to hand the reins to new leadership, and I am confident that Jim is the right leader to take the company to the next phase of its transformation.
Clarke will be available to Continenza and the Board to ensure a smooth transition.
Continenza currently serves as chairman of the board of Merrill Corporation LLC and Sorenson Communications LLC. He also serves on the board of directors of Nextel International Inc. In addition, Continenza is the founder, chairman and CEO of Vivial Inc., a privately held marketing technology and communications company.
Continenza was previously chairman of the board of Tembec Inc., Neff Rental LLC, Aventine Renewable Energy Inc., Southwest Georgia Ethanol LLC, BioFuel Energy Corporation, and Portola Packaging Inc. He also previously served on the board of directors for Hawkeye Renewables, Blaze Recycling LLC, Anchor Glass Container Corporation, Rath-Gibson Inc., Rural Cellular Corporation, U.S.A. Mobility Inc., MAXIM Crane Works Inc., Arch Wireless Inc., Broadview Networks LLC, Teligent, Inc. and Microcell Telecommunications, Inc.
Phillippe D. Katz, the newly appointed director of Kodak, will fill Clarke’s seat on the Board. Katz has served as partner at the investment firm of United Equities Commodities Company since 1996. He also sits on the board of directors of Berkshire Bancorp Inc. and several private company boards.
For more information, visit www.kodak.com.
The preceding press release was provided by a company unaffiliated with Print+Promo. The views expressed within do not directly reflect the thoughts or opinions of Print+Promo.
