BenefitMall, Acquired By Carlyle Group, Appoints Scott Kirksey As CEO

(RTTNews) - BenefitMall, which was recently bought by Global alternative asset manager Carlyle Group (CG), announced Tuesday that Scott Kirksey, formerly President of the company, has assumed the role of Chief Executive Officer, effective January 1, 2018.

BenefitMall, a provider of employee benefits, payroll, and HR services to small- and medium-sized businesses, noted that the appointment is the latest strategic change for the firm, which partnered with Carlyle to acquire the company from an investor group led by Austin Ventures on December 31, 2017.

Outgoing CEO Bernard DiFiore will continue as Chairman of BenefitMall's Board of Directors and will serve as a key advisor.

Kirksey has been with BenefitMall since 1999. Prior to his role as President, Kirksey was BenefitMall's Chief Financial Officer for more than 15 years.

Before joining BenefitMall, Kirksey was a key member of the executive team that executed a successful turnaround and subsequent sale of Greyhound.

DiFiore said, "As we move into the next stage of BenefitMall and explore opportunities for accelerated growth, Scott Kirksey has the experience and vision to lead our company. Scott's leadership and operations expertise will guide the company to ensure that we are positioned to capitalize on every business opportunity."

Kirksey added, "Bernie's leadership, vision, and mentorship have helped BenefitMall achieve remarkable growth over the last 18 years, and I look forward to drawing on that experience as he takes on the advising role. As we enter 2018, our company, fueled and supported by The Carlyle Group, is strategically positioned for greater growth for our company, customers, and employees."

The company noted that equity for the acquisition came from management and Carlyle Global Financial Services Partners II, a $1 billion fund that invests in financial service firms globally.