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thestreet.com
Hairy Goes Again: USWeb's CEO Grows His Own
Sources close to USWeb (USWB:Nasdaq), which went
public 10 months ago, have revealed the secret to the
company's successful roadshow. Seems the company's
boyish CEO Joseph Firmage, then 27, grew a beard for the
roadshow to appear older and, presumably, wiser. Musta
worked. The December IPO, led by Hambrecht & Quist,
was a blowout success, going out at the top of its range.
Sources within H&Q and USWeb's executive suite confirm
that the bearded CEO was a crucial aspect of the offering
pitch. (Firmage could not be reached for comment.)
USWeb's growth strategy has been to acquire other Internet
design and service companies. Last month it announced a
much-criticized merger with Internet advertising company
CKS Group (CKSG:Nasdaq). However, the company
announced recently that its two-year, 31-company
acquisition spree will be completed near the end of 1998.
And after that? Who knows: May we suggest the hair club
for CEOs? |
