Four key executives and managers at Liberty Tax are out the door. The company issued a statement to employees that the reason for the changes was its goal “Happy Successful Franchisees and employees”.

The last remaining independent member of the board of directors of Liberty Tax has resigned, protesting three newly appointed executives as “not qualified to hold these positions in a public company”.  In his letter of resignation, Ross Longfield protested a number actions by board dominated by allies of ousted CEO John Hewitt, including hiring his personal law firm as Corporate General Council.

Troubled Liberty Tax has named three new executives, including Nicole Ossenfort, who was appointed president and CEO. The company parted ways with Ed Brunot, who joined as COO on June 1 and who became CEO in September. The new executives appear to be allies of ousted CEO John Hewitt.