John French Takes Helm of Cygnus Business Media

Contact:
Kathy Scott, Director of Public Relations
Cygnus Business Media
(770) 427-5290
Kathy.Scott@cygnusb2b.com

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Business-to-business veteran assumes reins as company emerges from Chapter 11

Fort Atkinson, WI (September 21, 2009) – Cygnus Business Media, a leading diversified business-to-business media company, has a new Chief Executive Officer. John French, one of the media industry's most respected leaders, has officially assumed the top position at the company today as it announces its emergence from Chapter 11.

"Cygnus Business Media is a formidable influence in business today," says French. "We have strong footprints in the areas of public safety, security, aviation, transportation and construction, all industries that provide the backbone of America’s renewal. Growth in these markets will be substantial in the years to come as products and services continue to transform how work is delivered, assessed, created and performed. Communication and knowledge will be the leveler and we will continue to be the most dynamic resource for delivering it."

French has been a visible force in the business-to-business media industry, serving in top positions of several leading companies. He was most recently Chief Executive Officer of Penton Media, Inc., and a member of its Board of Directors, assuming the role in 2006 following the acquisition of Penton Media by Prism Business Media. The acquisition created the largest independent business-to-business media company in the U.S., serving 30 industries with more than 900 media products. During his tenure, he oversaw the creation of a digital business division that focused on next-generation initiatives. He has advocated for integrated marketing models aimed at providing awareness for brands through several high quality mediums and supports creating customized market research for customers interested in gaining strategic leverage in their marketplace.

"As with any company, the strongest asset lies in the people who work day-to-day to deliver quality. Cygnus Business Media employees represent the best in business. They are focused, tenacious, innovative and committed. I look forward to working with them and continuing to build on their success," adds French.

Cygnus Business Media's interim-CEO, Charles Carnaval, an executive with Zolfo Cooper, a corporate management solutions firm, will assist in the transition.

"Zolfo Cooper and especially Charles Carnaval and Scott Gellman have worked very hard these past several months and they deserve credit for their ongoing financial and management expertise," adds French. "Charlie will be missed. He is a great communicator and has been a dedicated CEO. We appreciate all of his hard work and efforts."

Cygnus Business Media is an internationally-recognized business-to-business media company. Its diverse portfolio serves 13 market categories with print and interactive products, and live events. Through its media, the company reaches more than 1.5 million print subscribers, nearly 1 million industry professionals via its Custom Marketing services group and expositions, and attracts 2 million unique visitors to its websites monthly. Cygnus Business Media provides comprehensive, integrated advertising and marketing programs for some of the world’s strongest business-to-business brands. For more information, visit www.cygnusb2b.com.