Spark Networks Announces Eric Eichmann as Incoming CEO
Spark Networks, the publicly traded dating company above brands like Attractive World, Jdate, Christian Mingle and Elite Singles, has announced a change of Chief Executive Officer.
Jeronimo Folguiera, who has held the role since October 2015, will give way to Eric Eichmann, former CEO of the global technology company Criteo, at the end of 2019.
Eichmann’s previous experience includes tenures as the COO of Rosetta Stone, COO and President of LivingSocial, and SVP Advertising Operations and Systems at AOL.
Folguiera will stay on as a Board Member at Spark. David Khalil, Chairman of the Board, said of the new hire: “The board and I are thrilled to have Eric join Spark Networks and lead the company through its next phase.
“Eric brings a strong track record delivering operational excellence in complex, global, and publicly traded businesses.
“His experience leading engineering teams, and his domain expertise across advertising and technology-driven businesses make Eric an exceptional candidate to lead Spark.”
He added: “Under Jeronimo’s leadership, we have completed three M&A transactions, taken the company public, and quadrupled Spark’s revenue to approximately €250 million.
“I’d like to thank Jeronimo for his passion and energy throughout his tenure, and for building Spark into the company it is today.”
Earlier this year, Spark Networks acquired legacy brand Zoosk for $150 million in American Depositary Shares, $95 million net cash consideration and a $10 million deferred cash payment.
The move made the company the second-largest publicly traded dating company in the Western world.
The outgoing CEO said: “I am extremely proud of what we have achieved during my time at Spark.
“The company is in a strong strategic position and I am confident that Eric can lead Spark through the next phase of growth. I look forward to working with Eric to ensure a smooth transition over the coming weeks.”
Eichmann will pursue election to Spark’s board in 2020.
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