Iconix Brands founder to step down, announces leadership changes

By

Obi Anyanwu

Published
Aug 10, 2015

The Board of Directors of Iconix Brand Group last week announced that Neil Cole, the CEO, Chairman and President of Iconix Brand, is stepping down from his positions. Board member, Peter Cuneo has been appointed Chairman of the Board and CEO of Iconix in the interim. Cole will serve as a special advisor to the company in this transition period through September 30, 2015.

 
Mr. Cuneo said: "Neil Cole is a pioneer in our industry and as founder of this company has overseen its significant growth for the past 10 years. Under Neil's leadership, Iconix has acquired over 35 iconic consumer brands creating a diversified and powerful portfolio. On behalf of the Board we want to thank Neil for his vision, dedication and the countless other contributions he has made to Iconix. We wish him well as he pursues new endeavors."
 
Neil Cole served as the company CEO, Chairman and President since he founded Iconix in 2005. Neil Cole said, "I am very proud of what we have built and the progress we have made over the past exciting 10 years and wish the company continuing success. The intellectual property assets of Iconix are strong and enduring. I look forward to assisting the company as we work to ensure a smooth transition."

Cuneo has served on Iconix’s Board since 2006, and served as the President and CEO of Marvel Entertainment prior. In the interim, the Board will evaluate candidates to serve as Iconix’s CEO.
 
In addition, Sue Gove was named the Chair of the Audit Committee, Cuneo’s previous position, and Drew Cohen was named Lead Director. Gove joined the Iconix Board in 2014 and Cohen served on the board since 2004.
 
Iconix currently owns, licenses and markets a portfolio of consumer brands including Badgley Mischka, Joe Boxer, London Fog, Rocawear, Starter, Zoo York, Marc Ecko and Ecko Unlimited among others, and it owns interests in brands Nick Graham, Ed Hardy, Pony, Billionaire Boys Club, Ice Cream and others.