March 2009
Leading fashion talent management and innovative media company, Ford Models, has appointed veteran talent, marketing and media entrepreneur Jon Diamond as chairman to lead its next phase of growth.
"Building on the innovation that is the hallmark of this iconic company, I am thrilled at the prospect of leading Ford Models with a strategy centered on our talent," Jon Diamond said.
"We will take the next steps in our evolution as the world's leading fashion talent management and media company by building a truly global agency focused on talent scouting and development, while strengthening our media platforms and presence, and investing in our people and infrastructure."
As a member of Ford's Board of Directors and chairman of Ford Media, a subsidiary of Ford Models, Diamond has worked closely with the company for the last year and a half.
A New York native, Diamond has worked with leading creative talent in the music, television, film and digital media industries, launching and operating breakthrough companies around emerging media trends for the last 25 years. These include: GRP Records, a leading independent music label and one of the first to release compact discs, later sold to MCA;
N2K, the first music e-commerce company, first on-line music network, and the first company to offer digital downloads of music; CDNow, after its merger with N2K, one of the largest e-commerce companies, later sold to Bertelsmann; and ARTISTdirect, one of the largest online networks dedicated to music, film and artists, and the first company to launch advertising and marketing programs on peer-to-peer networks
"For more than 60 years, Ford Models has revolutionized the modelling industry. Diamond's background in technology and entertainment coupled with his unique experience showcasing talent by identifying innovative media opportunities makes him the ideal leader for Ford Models, its talent and its future," said John Caplan, departing Ford Models CEO.
"I feel fortunate and privileged to have had the opportunity to work with such an iconic brand and help preserve and grow its legacy. Katie Ford brought me on board to build the business and position the company for a sale. I have achieved both goals, and have been transitioning the company into its next exciting phase under the leadership ofJon Diamond. I look forward to pursuing exciting entrepreneurial opportunities," added Caplan.
Said Diamond, "Ford Models has been very fortunate to have an executive with John's talent and vision leading the company for the past six years."
This news message is supported by The Bazaar, a marketplace to buy and sell creative objects. Earn more revenue by selling your prints, downloadable images, or custom products. Set up your store today and stand a chance to have your products featured on DesignTAXI, towards millions of lovers of creative content!
