Bell and Howell, Durham, N.C., CEO Leslie Stern is stepping down from his position for personal reasons.
“I’m proud of what the team has accomplished to reestablish the Bell and Howell brand and its reputation for innovative products,” said Stern. “Thanks to our loyal customers, our dedicated workforce, and our industry-leading solutions, we are well-positioned for continued growth, so after two years of commuting to Durham from my home in New York, I need to spend more time with my family.”
“Under Les’ leadership, Bell and Howell has reasserted its position as a leading provider of high-volume mail and document management solutions,” said Bell and Howell Chairman Gregory Segall, Versa Capital CEO. “The company has made substantial progress since our 2011 acquisition in large measure due to Les’ efforts working with the management team and all Bell and Howell employees worldwide. For his efforts, we are extremely grateful and wish Les the very best as he moves on to his next big challenge.”
The board of directors has appointed member Kamal Advani of controlling shareholder Versa Capital Management LLC, as interim CEO until a permanent successor is found, which is expected to occur by year’s end.
“In the meantime, Kamal Advani brings a wealth of experience to his interim role and is the right person to lead Bell and Howell during this transition,” Segall said. “The board is confident that we will find a talented executive for this highly attractive opportunity to lead a promising company with a strong future.”
Advani has nearly 30 years of finance and operating experience in a variety of industries. He has held senior financial and operating roles at several companies driving growth and value creation.
For more information, visit www.bellhowell.net.
