IM Global CEO exits over strategic plan

IM Global CEO Stuart Ford is leaving the Hollywood content firm over “strategic differences” with its owners.

According to US reports, Ford (pictured) was forced out on Friday over disagreements with Tang Media Partners over the future of the film-focused business.

Tang bought IM Global last year for around US$200 million, and has since expanded its television business with the hire of formats veteran Phil Gurin, former Syfy president Mark Stern and ex-Electus exec Eli Shibley in senior roles.

A statement from Ford’s lawyer, Marvin Gelfand, issued to Deadline pointed to “strategic differences”, adding: “We have been in contact with each other to try and resolve the outstanding issues and move on”.

Ford has led IM Global for ten years. His exit comes as Tang bought another indie film firm, Open Road Films (Spotlight).

Neither IM Global nor Tang could be contacted before press time for comment.