Ex-Time Chief Jack Griffin: ‘My Exit Was Not About Style or Results’

In a public statement, he denies boss Jeff Bewkes’ comments that he didn’t “mesh” with the company

Ousted Time Inc. CEO Jack Griffin is speaking out about being axed from the magazine after just five months on the job. 

In a memo to staff, Time Warner Chief Jeff Bewkes wrote that Griffin's leadership style did not "mesh" with the company.

Also read: Time Inc. CEO Jack Griffin Axed After 5 Months

Not so, cries Griffin.

"I was recruited and hired by Time Warner to lead the business transformation of Time Inc., based on my clear record of success and results in the industry. This continued at Time Inc., with the consistent and documented acclaim of Time Warner’s senior management," Griffin said in a public statement. "Every action I took over the past six months was made with that ultimate goal in mind. My exit was clearly not about management style or results. I leave behind a first rate team and wish them all the best of success."

He did not amplify, however, what his exit was about.

Griffin, who was poached from Des Moines-based Better Homes and Gardens publisher Meredith, was believed to have signed a three year deal, according to the New York Post. 

But Time insiders told TheWrap that Griffin's sweeping changes and decision to place his name on the masthead of each Time Inc. publication left many executives at the company up in arms. 

An interim management committee, composed of Howard Averill, Maurice Edelson and John Huey, will lead the publishing group until a replacement for Griffin is named.

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