Emerald Expositions Events Inc., the parent of Surf Expo, Outdoor Retailer and other trade shows, announced that David Doft will become its chief financial officer.
Doft will take over following the conclusion of the company’s reporting of financial results and filing of the company’s annual report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2019. Philip Evans, the company’s current CFO, will continue in that role through such date to allow for a smooth and successful transition of responsibilities and reporting of full-year 2019 results. Evans will stay on with the company as an employee through March 31, 2020.
Brian Field, interim president and CEO, commented, “Emerald is well-positioned for future growth and improved financial performance given its strong portfolio and top talent. Continuing our efforts to augment capabilities to execute on our growth and value-creation plan, we are pleased to announce that David Doft will be joining the Emerald team as a full-time employee on January 16 and officially assuming the CFO role later in February. David’s proven leadership, formidable execution skills and broad strategic and financial management background will contribute considerable depth to our executive team. His many accomplishments and skills are a powerful addition to Emerald; we could not be more excited to have David on board to help implement our strategic vision.”
Kosty Gilis, chairman of Emerald’s board of directors, commented, “Since joining the company in October 2013, Phil’s contributions have been considerable. In particular, we are grateful for his commitment, diligence, positivity and kindness, and for the steady hand he brought to Emerald during his tenure as interim chief executive officer. We thank him for his leadership and direction during such a pivotal time for Emerald and for the critical role he has played in building a strong foundation for our business and strategy.”
“I am thrilled to be joining the Emerald team at this critical juncture in its turnaround. Emerald’s variety of brands and products has tremendous growth potential as business-to-business marketers seek solutions to break through the clutter and reach customers directly and in person. I look forward to leveraging my experience in advertising and marketing, as well as in financial and operational management, to support Emerald’s strong leadership team in achieving its growth and financial ambitions,” said Doft.
Doft brings more than 25 years of experience in corporate finance, accounting and strategic planning to Emerald including fourteen years of Wall Street experience. Before joining Emerald, Doft served as CFO of MDC Partners, a global provider of marketing, advertising, activation, communications, and strategic consulting solutions, since 2007.
Emerald currently operates more than 55 trade shows as well as numerous other face-to-face events.
