Category: You’re Hired

Following major developments over the past year, including brand and digital platform launches, a name change and transition to the NYSE (TOON), Kartoon Studios (the “Company” or “Kartoon Studios”) announced the appointment of finance veteran Brian Parisi as the Company’s Chief Financial Officer. Andy Heyward, Chairman and CEO of Kartoon Studios stated, “It is my privilege to welcome Brian to our high-caliber executive team. At this pivotal moment in Kartoon Studios’ evolution, Brian’s specialized skillset in financial management, coupled with his rich experience in the entertainment industry, could not be more timely or relevant.”

Litzky Public Relations (LPR), an award-winning communications agency renowned for connecting brands with kids and families, celebrates its 35th anniversary in 2023. The milestone year will also begin the agency’s next chapter as Founder and CEO Michele Litzky announces her retirement and the agency’s President, Josslynne Welch, who has managed agency operations since 2018, becomes sole proprietor. “When I started LPR, I had an education from some of the best in the toy business and a love of the industry that remains today,” said Michele Litzky, founder of the agency that continues to bear her name. “As I move into my next chapter, I’m leaving my firm in the most capable hands I know, with Josslynne Welch. Her diversification into other business sectors that service kids and families and her continued commitment to the toy industry makes me equally proud and excited to see where she’s taking LPR next.”

 Mattel, Inc has announced the promotion of Robbie Brenner to President of Mattel Films. She was previously Executive Producer of Mattel Films since 2018. Ynon Kreiz, Chairman and CEO of Mattel, said: “Robbie joined the company five years ago to bring the vision of Mattel Films to life, collaborating with leading filmmakers to make standout quality movies based on our iconic brands that will resonate in culture and appeal to global audiences. She has done exactly that and so much more, positioning Mattel Films as a key partner for innovative creators, world-class talent, award winning producers, and major studios.”

Moose Toys, a leading innovator in the toy industry, today announced industry veteran Jeff Hurst joins the company as senior vice president, North American sales. He will be based out of the company’s U.S. operation in El Segundo, Calif., beginning in October. In this leadership position, Hurst is responsible for defining, leading and driving the execution of the North American strategic sales plan and annual goals for emerging and established markets. “I found this opportunity with Moose irresistible. My team and I are not just selling toys, we are selling Moose innovation and that is what ultimately attracted me to the company and this role,” said Hurst. “With their wildly creative original brands and impressive licensing portfolio, the stage is set for Moose’s next level growth. I look forward to expanding Moose’s already world-class sales team and contributing to the company’s continued success.”

Moose Toys has announced that 20-year industry veteran, Ronnie Frankowski has been promoted to the role of Global President.  Frankowski will be responsible for leading the global senior leadership team to deliver on Moose’s rolling strategic plan, including meeting annual commercial and functional objectives, in-line with the business’ purpose and values. “Ronnie is a proven global leader who knows how to get results,” said Paul Solomon, CEO at Moose Toys. “We know that his exceptional leadership qualities, his unique ability to facilitate a leading culture and his extensive industry experience both at Moose and elsewhere, will enable us to take Moose to the next level!” 

Schleich, the German manufacturer of figurines and playsets, has just announced a new change to their executive team appointing Stefan De Loecker as the new CEO effective January 1, 2024. Before joining Schleich, Stefan De Loecker was CEO of Beiersdorf and previously President of its emerging markets and has had a broad and long-standing career in FMCG, namely with Nestlé. Dirk Engehausen, CEO of Schleich for more than eight years, left Schleich on 15 August 2023. After a transition period, he will join its Advisory Board.

Superights, international distribution division of Seperpod Group, ups Hugo Brochard to International Sales Manager and hires Élodie Friess as new sales coordinator. They will report to Nathalie Pinguet, Superights’ Deputy Managing Director Sales and Acquisitions. Based in Paris, Hugo will oversee sales in Eastern Europe territories, Spain, Portugal, Africa, Latin America and Inflight zones while Elodie will ensure sales coordination and administration. According to Pinguet, the appointments “support our objective of strengthening the team to manage a growing catalogue with many new series to come.

Academy Award-nominated French animation studio Xilam Animation has upped Safaa Benazzouz to the position of EVP Distribution, effective 1 September 2023. Previously Deputy EVP Distribution, Benazzouz will replace the company’s outgoing EVP Distribution, Morgann Favennec. In her new role, Benazzouz will lead the worldwide distribution strategies across Xilam’s new and forthcoming productions, including Karate Sheep, Oggy Oggy and Buddybot, and its existing catalogue, which includes Oggy and the Cockroaches, Zig & Sharko, Where’s Chicky? and Athleticus. Additionally, she will be responsible for driving sales across the US, UK, Ireland, Germany, South Europe, Middle East, Africa and Latin America; and managing the four teams within Xilam’s distribution department: international sales, digital, licensing and marketing. She will continue to be based in Xilam’s head office in Paris and will now report into the company’s Founder and CEO, Marc du Pontavice.

Playview Brands, a leading toy company with a growing portfolio of esteemed brands and licenses, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Domenic Bettini as its new Director of Business Development. With over 20 years of success in growing brand revenues and market share, Bettini will play a pivotal role in driving Playview Brands to new heights. Domenic Bettini’s new role complements Playview Brands’ increasing scope of fun with their NERF license renewal, new partnership with entertainment franchise Minecraft, upcoming My HeroMail, and jigsaw lines, including KI Puzzles. Bettini will spearhead Playview’s efforts to identify and capitalize on new business opportunities for their roster of renowned brands.