Bollore
Vincent Bollore has put forward two candidates for next week's board elections at Aegis's AGM, writes Brand Republic (via MediaBuyerPlanner). Bollore, chairman of Aegis's French rival Havas, recently raised his stake in Aegis to 27.56 percent, which puts him close to being able to mount a formal takeover, according to MediaPost. Rather than nominating himself, Bollore has chosen Roger Hatchuel, former owner of the Cannes Lions International Advertising Festival, and Philippe Germond, former president of French mobile firm Alcatel.
Five directors, including David Verklin, CEO of Carat North America, are up for re-election to the 11-person board.
Bollore began buying up shares in Aegis last August, just a month after he took over the post of chairman of Havas. Initially thought a corporate raider out for short-term profit, Bollore is now seen to have long-term plans in the media sector, Brand Republic writes.
In November, when Bollore's stake in Aegis was at 25 percent, the company was reportedly determined to keep him off the board, likely concerned that he would mirror at Aegis his behavior at Havas, where he won four board seats and ousted chairman and CEO Alain de Pouzilhac.
Previous coverage:
- Bollore to Gain Aegis Board Seats
- Bollore Speaks Out on Havas, Aegis
- Bollore, a 'Misery' to Aegis, Seeks Board Seats
- WPP Ends Aegis Bid; Bollore May Soon Make Move
- Media Services Kingpin Bollore, WPP May Jointly Bid for Aegis
- Aegis Determined to Keep Bollore off Board
