CEO: Publishing Technology

Publishing Technology names Michael Cairns as new CEO

Publishing Technology plc (LSE: PTO), a leading provider of content solutions for publishers, has today announced that Michael Cairns has been appointed Chief Executive Officer with effect from 1 April 2014.

Michael Cairns joined Publishing Technology plc in May 2013, when he took the position of Chief Operating Officer of the company’s online division. He has been responsible for improving the divisional strategy to focus on business development and operational efficiency and with significant steps having been made towards these goals, the company is confident that Michael, with his blend of internal awareness and fresh external thinking is well positioned to carry that momentum through the business.

With 20 years’ experience in digital publishing and operations management, Michael has spearheaded major strategy and technical shifts across a portfolio of products and services, most notably helping organisations transition from traditional print-based media to online delivery. In addition to serving for seven years as President of R.R. Bowker, his previous roles include senior positions within professional information, trade and educational publishers as well as working to define and launch several start-up businesses.

Announcing the appointment, Martyn Rose, Chairman of Publishing Technology, commented: “Michael has already proven himself in his time at the company and I am delighted to be able to promote him to the role of Chief Executive Officer. His market knowledge and expertise in digital publishing are unquestionable and his appointment gives the business continuity and a leader who will drive the business to deliver the next phase of our strategy.”

Michael Cairns commented: “I am excited to be taking over the position of CEO at this important time in the company’s development. I will be working with the management team to deliver our strategy of growth with product and implementation efficiency. I look forward to meeting customers across the business and our investors over the coming months.”

Prior to joining Publishing Technology, Michael was a Managing Partner at Information Media Partners where he consulted for publishers on business strategies and digital transformation, an executive at MyWire.com, VP, Digital Production at Wolters Kluwer Heath Education, and for seven years served as President of R.R. Bowker.  Prior to Bowker, he was a media consultant with Price Waterhouse Coopers.  Michael has served as a board member of the Association of American Publishers (AAP) and the Book Industry Study Group (BISG), and Chairman of the International ISBN Executive Committee.