Airfoil Group, a marketing communications consultancy for mid-market brands based in Royal Oak, announced that its founder Lisa Vallee-Smith is stepping down as CEO and will be succeeded by Keith Donovan.
Vallee-Smith remains with the firm as chairperson and will continue to be involved with the business, its staff, and its clients. Over the course of the next several years, Donovan will assume ownership of the business. Details of the impending purchase are not disclosed.
Donovan has been with Airfoil for more than 15 years. He most recently served as president of Airfoil Communications. His CEO duties will include day-to-day management of the agency’s professional operations, including oversight of the firm’s four practice areas and directing Airfoil’s strategic planning, client services and satisfaction, agency growth, and staff development initiatives.
“I’ve decided that after 21 years, the company is ready to move on from its founder,” Vallee-Smith says. “Keith has been my choice to succeed me for some time. In working with him over many transformational years at Airfoil, I have developed a deep trust in his ability to manage, execute, and lead.
“He and I share a passion for the marketing profession, and I’m confident he will take the firm in new and exciting directions in the years ahead. I couldn’t be happier for Keith and his family, and for Airfoil’s staff and clients.”
Donovan adds: “I’m honored to carry on the remarkable legacy Lisa has built and to lead Airfoil into an exciting new chapter. Lisa and I have long shared a common vision for the business. She has been a tremendous friend and mentor to me over the years, and I’m grateful for this next opportunity. We’ve built a business grounded in strong values, teamwork, and exceptional execution. That foundation will certainly guide our work going forward.”
