Klout Founder Steps Out

Joe Fernandez, founder and former CEO of influencer specialist Klout has stepped down from his leadership role, a year after the company was acquired by Lithium Technologies, to pursue other ventures. He takes an advisory role on the company's board of directors.

Klout was a pioneer in social media influence scoring, and was acquired just over a year ago for between $150m and $200m, according to reports. Lithium says Fernandez' responsibilities have been 'distributed functionally throughout Lithium', which has now integrated Klout's technology, 'though it will keep the brand name. Fernandez takes the board seat of Chi-Hua Chien, who joined when the acquisition took place.

Rob Tarkoff, President and CEO of Lithium, comments: 'Joe has made our acquisition of Klout a big success and I'm grateful for his vision and contributions to the entire Lithium roadmap and platform. Joe will continue to play a vital role guiding us on consumer apps and technology. I know his passion is as an entrepreneur - I'm glad we get to benefit from his entrepreneurial spirit and insights on our board at the same time I wish him huge success in his next endeavors.'

Fernandez says Lithium will be announcing further Klout innovations 'over the next couple of months' and comments: 'I am happy I could shape the product's direction and make an impact on Lithium's vision as a Total Community provider. Klout will always be a passion of mine - and I know the product and its users are in great hands with Lithium.'

Lithium is a privately held company headquartered in San Francisco and is online at www.lithium.com .

All articles 2006-23 written and edited by Mel Crowther and/or Nick Thomas, 2024- by Nick Thomas, unless otherwise stated.

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