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People pay little attention to the succession process…

January 20, 2012 | by Judy Kessel

People pay little attention to the succession process, though it is, in fact, the ultimate test of good management.”—Peter Drucker

Judy Kessel, Founder & Chair

Entrepreneurs generally believe they need to have a hand in all aspects of their business venture. As founder and president of StoneArch Creative, this was my attitude for the first 25 or so years. However, what I’ve come to learn and accept is that as our business evolves, so should my role.  It became clear to me that I was best suited for specific areas of the business which is new business and client service. My value to the business was working on the business rather than in the business.
For the past year I have been very encouraged about the direction of our agency. But growing a business and sustaining a business take different kinds of focused energy.  I am at a point in my life and career where I can best contribute to the greater good of the business rather than the day to day running of the business.
I believe succession is having someone who can take a business to the next level but who is aligned with my goals, vision and mission. That is why we recently named Jessica Boden as the new president of StoneArch Creative. Jessica has already been instrumental in the agency’s growth and success.  Jessica will lead StoneArch to become the foremost medical marketing agency in the country.  She has the passion, know-how and integrity to make this a reality.  Jessica will work with CEO, Jerrold Gershone to assure that day to day activities of the agency are geared toward growth, profitability and happy, healthy employees.
My role as Chairman of the Board will allow me to do what I do best which is to assure the business is moving in the right direction, developing strategic relationships and looking for new opportunities to meet corporate goals and objectives.