Available: CEO Position

WSJ: Christie Hefner to Leave Playboy Helm

By Mike Barris

Playboy Enterprises Inc. Chairman and Chief Executive Christie Hefner is stepping down after two decades at the helm of the adult-entertainment empire created by her father.

In a press release Monday, Hugh Hefner said, "I asked Christie to step up as president when the company faced serious financial difficulties more than two decades ago. She has worked tirelessly to expand the company's franchise, and, as a result of her efforts, the company today has more consumers and fans than at any time in our history."

Ms. Hefner will stay on as CEO until Jan. 31 and remain a board member until her successor joins the company. In the meantime, six-year director Jerome Kern will be chairman.