Columbine JDS Systems Inc. and Enterprise Software Inc have announced they have combined their businesses in a stock-for-stock merger. The agreement creates a broadcast and advertising business systems and services provider covering radio, television, cable, satellite and advertising agencies.
According to contacts, the new company will be well-positioned to provide Internet-related products and services.
Barry Goldsmith will serve as CEO of the combined entity. Goldsmith formerly served as CEO of Drake Automation (DAL). Paul Hillyard, formerly group finance director of DAL, will join the group as executive vice president and will report to Goldsmith, along with. Mike Oldham, COO of CJDS and Rob McConnell, CEO of Enterprise.
The combined company will have a worldwide total of approximately 1,000 employees. Major shareholders will include Thomas H. Lee Partners, Blackstone Capital Partners III, Chancery Lane Capital, LiveWire Media and Evercore Capital Partners.
Sharon Rae Pettigrew
