Business Context and Reporting Period
This Form 8-K is filed by Genius Brands International, Inc. (formerly Kartoon Studios, Inc.) for the reporting period of March 7, 2014. The filing addresses Item 5.02 regarding the departure of a Chief Financial Officer and the appointment of an interim replacement.
Key Financial Metrics
The filing text does not provide a clear value for revenue, profit, cash flow, margins, debt, or liquidity. This report focuses exclusively on corporate governance and personnel changes.
Material Changes
- Departure: Jeanene Morgan resigned as Chief Financial Officer, effective March 7, 2014. The resignation was not due to any disagreement with the Company regarding operations, policies, or practices.
- Appointment: Richard Staves was appointed as Interim Chief Financial Officer on March 12, 2014.
Management Commentary and Background
Richard Staves brings significant experience to the role, having previously served as CFO of A Squared Entertainment LLC (acquired by the Company in November 2013). His background includes roles as President of Cherry Creek Wealth Management, owner of Cambridge Financial Services, and Senior Wealth Advisor at Wells Fargo. He is a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) and holds Series 7, 63, and 65 securities licenses. The Company confirmed there are no family relationships between Mr. Staves and other officers or directors, and no undisclosed arrangements regarding his appointment.
Investor Verification Checklist
- Verify the effective date of Jeanene Morgan's resignation (March 7, 2014).
- Confirm Richard Staves' appointment date as Interim CFO (March 12, 2014).
- Review Mr. Staves' prior tenure at A Squared Entertainment LLC to assess continuity of financial oversight.
- Check for any subsequent filings regarding the permanent appointment of a CFO.