• by Steve McClellan  @mp_mcclellan, May 29, 2013

Heather Frahm, president and co-founder of Boston-based Catalyst, the search engine marketing firm that is part of WPP’s GroupM, is stepping down, the company has confirmed.

Frahm, who has been president of Catalyst since its inception in 1998, indicated that she is leaving to spend more time with her family -- particularly her mother, who is ill.

Beth LeTendre CEO and co-founder of the agency, will add the title of president and assume Frahm’s responsibilities, per the company.

The agency also said that it will be adding several more managerial positions shortly to strengthen the shop’s leadership team, including a new senior vice president of operations and two senior level group account directors.

Kelly Clark, CEO GroupM North America, credited Frahm with having “helped build a very strong, innovative and results-driven company.” Going forward, he added, “Under Beth’s leadership, we know that Catalyst will continue to deliver excellent client service, new and innovative solutions, and strong growth.”

Catalyst has grown from a startup to a search marketing firm servicing a range of Fortune 1000 clients. WPP acquired the company in 2010.

“Catalyst has been my life for the past 15 years, and I am fortunate to have had the privilege of creating Catalyst” with LeTendre, said Frahm. “It is my time to turn the page to another chapter in my life and spend time with my family.”

Frahm will remain active in the search marketing industry and continue to serve on the boards of several firms in the business.