Former Opus Group CEO Cliff Brigstocke has left the company to take up the role of chief executive of Blue Star, as Matt Aitken moves to chief operating officer for IVE.
Brigstocke last week stepped down from his CEO position at Opus with Richard Celarc assuming the role, but has now left the group completely to head the Blue Star division.
Aitken will now oversee parent IVE group’s three divisions Kalido, Blue Star Group and IVEO, with the CEO of each division reporting directly to Aitken.
Brigstocke spent nine years with Opus, and prior to that headed its predecessor Knox. Current CEO Celarc says the management shift comes at an opportune time for the group, however he says Brigstocke’s industry experience is an asset that will be missed.
“Cliff has a rare opportunity to join a major player in our industry, and I know his public company experience, skill set and corporate exposure will be a great asset,” says Celarc.
“The opportunity comes at a time the Opus group is consolidating its efforts to focus more on Australia so in many ways whilst Cliff will be greatly missed, it comes at a time that I believe will work for both parties. Cliff is working with me to ensure a smooth transition and will be available until the end of June”.
Commenting on his departure from Opus Brigstocke says, “Whilst I am indeed saddened to be leaving the Group we founded, I believe in many ways the time is right.
“I’m leaving Opus in good shape and in capable hands and of course wish the team every success as they focus on their Australian businesses. I would particularly like to thank Richard for his support over the years and wish him and the Opus team every success.”
Managing director at IVE Warwick Hay says the collaboration of Brigstocke and Aitken will strengthen operations for the group.
“The ongoing refinement and strengthening of our leadership team further enhances our capacity to continue the evolution and growth of our business,” says Hay.
“Under Matt’s and Cliff’s leadership, we can expect the benefits of the group’s cohesive offering to become even more entrenched.”
Opus was headed by Brigstocke from its inception through a tumultuous period involving a phase of heavy debt and bulk of share ownership shifting to Hong Kong printer 1010.
According to IVE, Brigstocke was also instrumental in acquiring, integrating and developing each business managed within Opus.
Aitken and Brigstocke are set to assume their new roles on July 1, 2016 after Brigstocke works out his tenure until June.
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