Category: You’re Hired

9 Story Media Group has announced the appointment of Katrina Hitz-Tough to the newly created position of SVP, Franchise Strategy & Marketing. Hitz-Tough will lead 9 Story’s recently established Franchise Management division to drive growth for select IP in 9 Story’s expanding portfolio of exciting kids’ properties, including the groundbreaking animated series Karma’s World (Netflix), the up-and-coming Ladybird Lu (HBO Max) and the evergreen toy-based property Colorforms. Reporting to Natalie Osborne, 9 Story’s Chief Strategy Officer, Hitz-Tough is tasked with leading the new Franchise division with the goal of extending key 9 Story IP beyond the screen. She will be working closely with 9 Story’s in-house Consumer Products division, led by Co-VPs Kristin Lecour and Kyra Halperin, as well as the company’s Marketing, Digital, Interactive, Production, Distribution and Research teams.

Oregon-based Hog Wild Toys, LLC has welcomed Steve Markey as the new Vice President of Sales and Marketing for North America, it was announced today by Jy Liao, president. In his new role, Markey will take the reins on all marketing initiatives and lead the Hog Wild North American sales teams with a strong directive to focus on the novelty foundation of the company.

Addressing the need for talent created by an ever-increasing production pipeline, Lighthouse Studios has appointed long-time animation consultant, Michael Downey, to the newly created position of Talent Management Director for the Kilkenny-based Irish studio. The announcement was made by Lighthouse Studio’s Managing Director, Claire Finn.

Award-winning STEAM brand, Osmo from BYJU’S, announces Peter Glovin’s appointment as Senior VP of Educational Sales, effective immediately. In this role, Glovin, a seasoned senior edtech sales executive, will develop and implement a U.S. sales strategy for the brand’s educational sales division, Osmo Education, as well as expand its sales team, targeting the Pre-K to Grade 5 education market. Osmo Education celebrated its fifth anniversary last March.

Joann Acevedo has been promoted to Senior Vice President, Softlines Licensing, North America ViacomCBS Consumer Products. It was announced by Jose Castro, Senior Vice President, Softlines, Fashion & Lifestyle Licensing and Global Collaborations, ViacomCBS Consumer Products.

Perez brings rich experience to the Executive Producer role, having spent a cumulative 14 years producing international and domestic content for the nonprofit organization behind the beloved series. Beginning with Sesame Street’s upcoming 53rd season, he will oversee the production and creative direction of the series and related domestic social impact productions, digital projects, and themed entertainment experiences. He will report to Kay Wilson Stallings, Executive Vice President of Creative and Production.

Jazwares, a global leader in toys and licensing, has announced that Jeremy Padawer joins the c-suite as Chief Brand Officer, effective immediately. Padawer is a toy industry veteran with deep expertise in brand development across multiple toy categories including collectibles, as well as an experienced executive in e-commerce and animated content. Padawer has been instrumental in Jazwares’ growth since joining the company in 2019 when Jazwares acquired Wicked Cool Toys. In this newly created role prioritizing brand and growth strategies, Padawer will be responsible for the company’s global brand building, design, marketing, and communications across all business units.

Hasbro, Inc. (NASDAQ: HAS) announced that its Board of Directors has appointed Chris Cocks as Chief Executive Officer and member of the Board of Directors, effective February 25, 2022.

Funko, Inc., a leading pop culture lifestyle brand, has announced that Charles Denson, a current member of the Board, has been appointed Chairman of the Board effective immediately. Mr. Denson replaces Ken Brotman of ACON Investments, who will continue to serve as a board member.