The Mystery of Mike Marts didn’t last long – after announcing his departure from Aftershock last Friday, his new gig was revealed today: editor in chief and EVP at Mad Cave Studios. It’s the latest bold move form the upstart publisher, who made headline a few weeks ago by acquiring Papercutz.
News first broke at ICv2.
Marts will oversee all of Mad Cave Studios‘s editorial staff, bringing the promise of “unparalleled character-driven storytelling and bombastic action.” He will oversee the YA Maverick imprint, as well as Papercutz. In his former positions as Executive Editor for Marvel Comics, Group Editor for DC Comics and the Editor-in-Chief for AfterShock Comics he edited such franchises as Batman, X-Men, and Guardians of the Galaxy.
“We are thrilled to welcome Mike Marts to Mad Cave Studios. He’s a proven leader and gifted storyteller with a keen eye for talent and quality,” said Mark London, Mad Cave Studios CEO/CCO. “Not only does Mike himself have 30 years worth of editorial experience, but also he has proven to be a valuable source of guidance for young creators along the way. As Mad Cave continues to establish itself in the growing comic book and graphic novel industry, we can’t think of a better person than Mike to take the role as Executive Vice President and Editor-in-Chief.”
“I’ve been watching Mad Cave’s progress from afar over the past several years, and have been completely impressed with their rapid growth and bold moves,” said Mike Marts. “How lucky am I to be invited to join Mad Cave’s team at such an exciting time in their company’s expansion. The company is poised to make further big impacts within the industry…my hope is that my creative network and years of experience can help add to this already formidable powerhouse.”
“Mike’s extensive editorial experience and business development skills will solidify our ability to continue to provide quality books for years to come,” Mark London continued. “Mike Marts is joining Mad Cave at a perfect time to directly impact and develop new strategic alliances and strengthen our position in the market as we experience this exciting period of growth.”
Mad Cave has been making a lot of noise of late (disclosure: including sponsoring The Beat’s convention coverage.) You can see an interview with CEO Mark London from the SDCC show floor here.