I want you know about some changes we’re implementing at Learfield that I know will make us a better and stronger company.  First, let me tell you what we’re doing, then I will discuss why.

I’m stepping down from my role as CEO—Chief Executive Officer–of Learfield.  I will continue as Chairman of the Board.

We’re starting a new, stand-alone, company to grow ancillary businesses for us.  We presently have significant relationships with 50-plus universities; this new venture—yet un-named—will expand those relationship to the benefit of those schools. Roger Gardner will be heading this up.

And, we’re asking Greg Brown to assume the role of President, CEO, of Learfield.  He’ll be moving to our Jefferson City office from Dallas. I think these adjustments, and others that will follow, are being made for two reasons. First we thrive, grow and prosper when we have new challenges before us, don’t we?  Greg, Roger, Stan, Andy, Paul and I think continually about how we can push ourselves and stay fresh. In fact, this has been core of our discussions over the last six months.  I’ve been Learfield’s CEO for years; Roger has been your president for five years.  We both want and need new horizons. That’s the primary impetus, candidly. Greg is in a perfect place to take over leadership of our company and both Roger and I have pushed him to take this role.  It just makes sense.

The six of us are humbled to lead this company; it is a privilege we don’t take lightly. We’re very comfortable changing roles from time-to-time as we know that this both keeps us personally fresh and allows talent to be directed to specific projects. Do you understand that?  It’s unusual in business today, but I believe one of the hallmarks of Learfield. We’re committed to upsetting the fruit basket more in coming years.

Secondly, I believe these changes will prepare us for formidable business challenges over the next five years.  Lots of thought has gone into what our place will be in our segments of the industry going forward. We must be poised to take advantage of every opportunity and to anticipate and react to competitive threats.  We’re a leader in our businesses now and fully intend to stay there.  And, we intend to grow.  Both Roger and Greg will be announcing plans in their scope of responsibility over the coming weeks.  Watch for those.

About two months ago I told you about an Advisory Board that I was assembling to help us in the areas of accountability and finance.  I’ll tell you more about that in the coming weeks as the Board’s first meeting is mid-October.  I will Chair that Board; Roger will be Vice Chair.

As for me, I am still involved.  But the future belongs to these younger people; they’re ready for the challenge.  In meetings with them over the last several weeks, I’m impressed with their thinking, the scope of their planning and their optimism.  Congratulate them.

–clyde