The acquisition of a minority stake in Jacobs Media by Doug Emslie is set to accelerate growth in the travel and hospitality media industry.
- Doug Emslie, former CEO of Tarsus Group, has acquired a minority stake in Jacobs Media, reinforcing the company’s strategic direction.
- Emslie’s vast experience in the events and media sector is expected to bolster Jacobs Media’s international expansion plans.
- The investment coincides with Jacobs Media’s 15th anniversary, marking a significant milestone in its journey.
- Industry experts Colin Morrison and Ian Findlay are set to depart from Jacobs Media following Emslie’s investment.
Doug Emslie, the former chief executive of Tarsus Group, has made a strategic investment by acquiring a minority stake in Jacobs Media, the owner of Travel Weekly. This move reinforces Jacobs Media’s strategic direction and aligns with their ambitious growth plans.
Emslie, who joined Tarsus Group in 1998 and led it as CEO for 25 years, now joins the board of Jacobs Media as deputy chairman. His extensive background in the events and media industry is expected to be instrumental in advancing Jacobs Media’s expansion, particularly in international markets. Jacobs Media founder Clive Jacobs expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “Doug shares my vision for Jacobs Media, and I am confident of the pivotal role he will play as we meet our ambitious strategic objectives over the coming years.”
The investment comes as Jacobs Media celebrates its 15th anniversary, having grown from a single-brand entity to a portfolio of nine brands across travel and hospitality. Operating from the UK and Dubai, the company plans to conduct 160 global events and exhibitions in 2024. Emslie’s presence is anticipated to further solidify its market position.
Amidst this transition, industry experts Colin Morrison and Ian Findlay will be leaving Jacobs Media, as well as Michael East’s position, following his passing. Emslie’s vision for Jacobs Media includes tapping into both domestic and overseas opportunities, highlighting the significance of quality content and robust events strategy. He remarked, “Jacobs Media has some wonderful brands and a great team, and I am excited by the potential of what we can achieve working together.”
Clive Jacobs acknowledged the contributions of Morrison, Findlay, and the late Michael East, crediting their support and trust as foundational to the company’s development. Jacobs noted, “In particular, Michael, who is deeply missed and without whom the opportunity to acquire Travel Weekly Group may never have presented itself.”
Doug Emslie’s investment in Jacobs Media heralds a promising new chapter for the company, enhancing its capacity for growth and innovation.
