Mark A. Ernst, will become the company's president and CEO on Jan. 1, 2001.

In his new role, Yabuki, 40, will be responsible for leading the tax business units branded under the Block name, including the company's domestic and international retail business, software and online tax services. Yabuki will also be responsible for aligning the delivery of financial services with the needs of Block's tax client base.

Yabuki previously served as the president of H&R Block International, where he was responsible for the company's tax services operations in Canada, Australia and the United Kingdom, and directed development of the company's financial services strategy in international markets. Prior to joining Block in September 1999, Yabuki served as president and chief executive officer of rival consolidator American Express Tax & Business Services Inc. in New York.

Under the firm's succession plan, another former Amex TBS alum who left to join Block in 1998, Mark A. Ernst, will become the company's president and chief executive officer on Jan. 1, 2001. Ernst currently serves as Block's president and chief operating officer.

"We've expanded our product offerings to include a variety of financial services, including home mortgages and financial products. Bringing these business units under one executive will enhance our ability to seamlessly integrate all H&R Block branded products and services for our customers," Ernst said.

-- SmartPros News Staff

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