Just days after Mike Marts announced his departure from AfterShock Comics, the veteran comics editor’s new gig has been revealed — and it’s a doozy. The one-time Batman and X-Men executive editor for DC and Marvel, respectively, will become the Executive Vice President and editor-in-chief for growing indie publisher Mad Cave Studios.

“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,” Marts said in a statement accompanying today’s announcement. “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.”

In his new position, Marts will be overseeing Mad Cave editorial on new and existing projects, as well as being tasked with directing the growth of the publisher’s young adult imprint Maverick, in addition to heading up the recently-acquired middle grade imprint Papercutz.

“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,” Mad Cave Studios CEO and CCO Mark London added “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.” 

Based out of Miami, Florida, Mad Cave Studios was founded in 2014 by London as a publisher with a specific intent on, as the company puts it, “escapism and identifying with characters who face insurmountable odds and fantastical adventures.” The publisher has worked with creators including Cullen Bunn, Zac Thompson, Erik Burnham, and Natasha Alterici.

The acquisition of Papercutz in August was something we covered at the time, noting that the latter had previously been one of the leading graphic novel publishers for children in the U.S.