KATHLEEN CAMPISANO, GLOBAL CHIEF MARKETING OFFICER, BEACON MEDIA GROUP (CHAIRPERSON, THE TOY FOUNDATION)

Kathleen Campisano is Global Chief Marketing Officer of Beacon Media Group. She is an award-winning business leader with an impeccable record of driving multimillion-dollar growth. Areas of expertise include strategic planning, P&L management, brand building, ideation, product development, integrated media planning and buying, merchandising, and experiential retailing.

She has mastered the art of interpreting consumer insights, and successfully translated those insights into market opportunities. Kathleen is a longtime contributor to the toy industry. She holds several patents for product innovation and has served on the Toy Association Board of Directors since 2016.

In 2019, Kathleen was honored to be appointed to the Board of Directors of the Toy Foundation, a uniting force for the collective philanthropy across the toy industry benefiting children in need.

Prior to her current role, Kathleen was Vice President of Toys & Games at Barnes & Noble 2009 – 2019. During her ten years at B&N, she launched a world class Educational Toys & Games department, created, and curated an enviable Hobby, Collectible, Adult Games & Puzzle and Pop Culture division. She achieved consecutive double-digit growth, significant market share and consistently outpaced the industry.

Campisano also served as Executive Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer for Mega Brands in 2007 – 2009. From 2000 – 2007 Campisano was SVP of Product Development & Marketing for LeapFrog Enterprises where she, along with her talented team, secured several TOTY Awards, People’s Choice Awards, and a coveted Grand Effie. Kathleen has also held key marketing and brand positions at Fisher Price from 1996 - 2000 and Century Baby Products from 1989 – 1996 where she received an IDSA award.

Kathleen has earned an Executive MBA from the SUNY School of Management and a BS in Marketing from Xavier University. Throughout her career, she has passionately and consistently applied her unique skills elevating best in class organizations. Kathleen prides herself on building strong motivated teams who drive impressive results. Her experience, commitment and passion have earned her the respect of executive colleagues, national educators, and industry leaders.

Greg Ahearn, PRESIDENT AND CEO, The Toy Association

Greg Ahearn is the President & CEO of The Toy Association, the business trade association that leads the health and growth of the $41 billion U.S. domestic toy market. In his role, Ahearn is responsible for driving engagement with manufacturers, retailers, and partners throughout the toy industry to ensure The Toy Association’s resources are invested into trade events, advocacy, and education that have the greatest impact.

Providing the highest level of regulatory expertise, leadership, and advocacy at the state, federal, and international levels; creating connection, collaboration, and a sense of unity within the industry; and aligning the energy, creativity, and passion of each of the Association’s 900+ members to benefit all companies of all sizes, are among Ahearn’s top leadership priorities.

Prior to joining The Toy Association, Ahearn was co-President at Davis Elen Advertising, where he led account services, media, business development, research/insights, strategic planning, social media, and influencer marketing. Ahearn helped deliver more than $10 million growth in client fees, accounting for a 40 percent increase in total agency revenues, and as part of new business responsibilities, worked to reimagine the agency with a new mission, values, logo, website, and pitch materials creating renewed interest and 87 percent growth in new client fees winning pitches for Smart & Final, Asana, Dice, and Warner Bros. Studios.

As Head of Marketing Strategy and Creative at Uber Technologies, Ahearn brought his marketing and brand-building expertise from CPG and omnichannel retail to the tech space. While at Uber, he managed the design of Uber’s first brand strategy which re-established the trust between riders, drivers, and the company. In addition, he led the repositioning work to create brand value beyond the functional benefits of on-demand transportation including a new mission, brand ID, and fall 2018 national campaign.

As Chief Marketing Officer and Head of Global Ecommerce at LeapFrog Enterprises from 2012 through 2016, Ahearn was a key member of the executive leadership team responsible for marketing, licensing, strategic planning, product/content strategy, product design, ecommerce, creative services, and the LeapFrog learning expert team. Ahearn led the company’s growth strategy resulting in a more than $200 million increase in sales in three years sparked by the LeapFrog LeapPad, the world’s #1 selling children’s tablet. In addition, he launched the LeapFrog App Store delivering more than $65 million in sales, making LeapFrog Learning Games a Top 10 selling product. He was responsible for over 50 licensing relationships with top content providers such as Disney, Nickelodeon, Cartoon Network, Lucasfilm, Marvel, Scholastic, Animal Planet, National Geographic and more.

Prior to LeapFrog, Ahearn was Chief Marketing Officer and Head of Global Ecommerce at Toys “R” Us, Inc. responsible for all aspects of marketing, advertising, promotions and creative services for the Toys “R” Us, Babies “R” Us, and FAO Schwarz brands. During his tenure, Toys “R” Us, Inc. increased annual sales and delivered more than $1 billion EBITDA from 2009 to 2012 on a global basis. His role included driving growth at the $800 million global ecommerce division, where he initiated the multi-channel retail strategy resulting in annual double-digit sales growth and higher profitability every year. On the marketing side, he optimized effectiveness by instituting a ROI based evaluation system for all marketing vehicles and created the Rewards “R” Us Loyalty Program to grow the customer base. As a member of the Toys “R” Us Children’s Charity board, Ahearn helped raise more than $19 million for Autism Speaks and $42 million for Toys 4 Tots.

Prior to joining Toys “R” Us, Inc., Ahearn was Vice President of Marketing for Hasbro Inc.’s OddzOn toy division in Napa, California. He oversaw the brand strategy, product development, marketing, and licensing for brands such as Koosh, Vortex toy sports and Rubik’s puzzles and games. During his tenure, the business grew from $30 million to over $100 million through product extensions, promotional drivers, and channel expansion.

Ahearn’s toy career began with Mattel, Inc. in El Segundo, California, where he worked on one of the top selling promotional dolls in Mattel’s history and was promoted into the Mattel Sports brand where he drove growth in major product lines from Wham-O (Frisbee, Hacky Sack), Aviva Sports and Morey body boards and equipment.

Ahearn received a bachelor’s degree from Georgetown University and a Master of Business Administration from the University of Southern California.

STEPHANIE BAILEY, GLOBAL HEAD OF TOYS AND HARDLINES, MOONBUG ENTERTAINMENT

Stephanie Bailey is a toy kid at heart. She started her career selling toys and dancing on the Big Piano at FAO Schwarz. Stephanie played an integral role in the Toys“R”Us acquisition of FAO Schwarz and went on to grow her career in Toys“R”Us merchandising across several categories, ultimately as a Divisional Business Manager for Babies”R”Us.

She has helped dozens of toy companies successfully launch their products and brands, making lots of Toys”R”Us kids very happy throughout the years. Stephanie’s industry experience and childhood dreams of getting slimed led her to a new career in licensing as the Senior Director of Toys at ViacomCBS. Stephanie is an active participant in the toy, licensing, and entertainment industries; she dedicates her time to Women In Toys (WIT) as both the New York chapter co-chair and all-around WIT champion. She develops fresh programming that delivers on WIT’s mission, particularly in areas of mentorship and diversity & inclusion.

She is passionate about making kids happy and eager to share her expertise to help others find success in the toy industry. She is committed to driving meaningful industry change through leading by example and growing collaboration across organizations to influence the evolution of equitable workplaces.

LINDSAY BRITT, VICE PRESIDENT OF GLOBAL CLIENT PARTNERSHIPS, AD SALES, PARAMOUNT GLOBAL

Lindsay Britt is the Vice President of Global Client Partnerships for the Paramount Advertising division of Paramount Global, a leading entertainment and media company with culture-defining brands like Paramount Pictures, CBS, MTV, Comedy Central and Nickelodeon. She joined Paramount Global in June 2005 and has held a series of roles over her 20 years with the company.

In her current role, Lindsay is focused on building and maintaining client relationships across Paramount’s key accounts within the Toy, Technology, QSR and Pharmaceutical categories. Lindsay works with partners to develop strategic marketing solutions for critical launches, anchored within Paramount’s vast media and marketing ecosystem inclusive of Linear (Broadcast & Cable), Digital Video/Streaming, Branded Content, Social, Influence Marketing and Grassroots Events/Tours, across Paramount’s entire portfolio of brands.

Prior to October 2024, Lindsay was part of a Kids & Family specialty team dedicated to growing revenue for the Nickelodeon Kids & Family side of the business. In this role she worked with both endemic and non-endemic advertising partners and was verticalized to the toy category for nine years, calling on over 75 Toy clients from Texas to the West Coast. In this position she built trusted, consultative relationships with her toy clients, and developed a deep understanding of the toy industry, specifically product development and marketing cycles, manufacturing, packaging, licensing, retail distribution, eCommerce strategies and retail marketing tactics.

Over the course of her first 10 years at Paramount, Lindsay was in the Nickelodeon Ad Sales division, partnering with a mix of both clients and media agencies. She spent two years verticalized to the movie studio category, partnering with studios on their Kids & Family theatrical releases. She also developed category expertise in gaming as she worked closely with top gaming companies on critical title and console launches.

Through her employment with Paramount, Lindsay has gained cross-functional expertise in strategically and effectively marketing to adults, parents and kids. Her focus with the Kids & Family side of the business has made her well-versed in generational insights, media consumption patterns, and kids’ advertising regulatory requirements and given her a deep knowledge of the media and marketing landscape. She is highly collaborative and has built close relationships with Paramount’s internal teams across the Nickelodeon YouTube content team, and the Consumer Products, Retail Sales and Retail Marketing teams.

Lindsay grew up in the Northern suburbs of Chicago and went to school at Denison University in Granville, OH. After graduation, she worked for six years with the Cartoon Network/Adult Swim Ad Sales division of Turner Broadcasting in Chicago, before relocating to Los Angeles and starting her job with Paramount. She currently lives in the South Bay with her husband and two girls.

ERICA BUXTON, PRESIDENT, RAZOR USA, LLC

Erica Buxton currently serves as the President of Razor USA, LLC.

Prior to rejoining Razor, Erica was the CEO of Hello Bello where she led the sale of the company to Hildred Capital in December 2023. Erica came to Hello Bello after serving as the COO/CFO of Razor USA, LLC overseeing operations and finance and heading up the Razor Share Scooter business. Prior to joining Razor, she was the co-founder and CEO of EQtainment, an educational media company focused on the development of social and emotional skills in children. There she led the creation of the Q Wunder multimedia platform and educational curriculum.

Before becoming an entrepreneur, Erica spent over seven years working at Mattel, Inc in a variety of strategic and financial roles. After completing her MBA at Harvard Business School, Erica advised Fortune 500 companies as a consultant at Boston Consulting Group and Deloitte Consulting before joining Mattel.

Erica graduated magna cum laude from Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology in Terre Haute, IN with a BS in Chemical Engineering. She currently resides in Manhattan Beach, California with her husband, Rob, their three children and their Golden Retriever. In her free time, you can find Erica on the sidelines of a variety of sporting events cheering on her kids.

JAMIE CYGIELMAN, GENERAL MANAGER, AMERICAN GIRL

Jamie Cygielman currently serves as General Manager/President of American Girl, a premium brand for girls, best known for its inspiring world of dolls, content, and experiences. American Girl is a division of Mattel, Inc.

Jamie joined American Girl in May 2019. For the past 30 years, Jamie has developed, managed, and grown global businesses across the Fashion, Beauty, Entertainment and Toy categories, for iconic brands such as Barbie, Revlon, The Radio City Rockettes, Jones New York, Danskin and Starter. She is a proven leader with a diverse perspective, understanding customer insights, driving brand innovation, and developing effective business turnarounds.

As Chief Marketing Officer for Iconix Brand Group’s portfolio of 30 fashion and lifestyle brands, Jamie drove innovative partnerships and breakthrough marketing campaigns, while leading the digital transformation for the organization.

As General Manager of Madame Alexander, Jamie successfully led the turnaround for the heritage doll company, to reclaim its premium position and cultural relevance, and restored the brand’s profitability.

At The Jones Group, Jamie re-launched a portfolio of fashion and lifestyle brands including Jones New York, Anne Klein, and Jessica Simpson, to a new generation of women through breakthrough creative, media, and retail programs.

At Madison Square Garden, Jamie developed a long-term strategic vision and expanded the iconic Rockettes into new forms of entertainment, merchandise, and partnerships through multi-media applications and new markets.

At HIT Entertainment, Jamie led Thomas & Friends to four years of consecutive double-digit growth and the status as the #1 pre-school brand, through retail segmentation, licensing and partnerships including live events, hospitality, and theme park programs.

As Global VP of Marketing for Mattel’s Barbie, Jamie led global brand strategy and product development. She drove innovation in the fashion doll category, launching the brand into long form entertainment with worldwide movie launches, related merchandise, and retail programs.

At Revlon, Jamie was part of the management team that re-branded Revlon with breakthrough brand positioning, storytelling, and product launches, infusing modernity and relevance into the heritage DNA, and drove the brand to #1 from #3.

Jamie holds an MBA from NYU Stern School of Business and a BA from The University of Michigan. She lives in New York City with her family.

MANUEL (MANNY) G. GRACE

Manuel G. Grace was previously the Associate General Counsel to The Walt Disney Company, the world’s largest entertainment company. Manny was head of the Environmental, Health and Safety practice group, which is part of the Corporate Legal Department. Manny’s responsibilities included a broad array of legal matters including, products liability, environmental compliance, and occupational safety. Manny supported Disney’s Product Integrity team, which reviews the safety of Disney-branded products sold or distributed to the public to confirm those products meet all applicable requirements.

Before joining Disney in December of 1992, Manny was with the New York law firm of Milbank, Tweed, Hadley & McCloy, where he was head of the Environmental Law Group since 1990. At Milbank, Manny specialized in the environmental aspects of energy development and the representation of multinational companies and banks regarding environmental matters. Before that, he was associated with the law firm of Sidley & Austin where his experience included environmental work on federal, state, and local levels since 1986.

Manny graduated from the University of Notre Dame in 1979 with a B.A. in Psychology. He earned his law degree from Columbia University School of Law in 1982, where he was Managing Editor of the Columbia Journal of Environmental Law. Manny also clerked in the United States Court of Appeals for the Second Circuit for the Hon. Lawrence W. Pierce.

Manny is a former member of the Board of Directors of the Notre Dame University Alumni Association and the California State Parks Foundation. He is currently on the Board of Directors of Earthshot, a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring climate action through video games and virtual and immersive experiences, and the Clairbourn School, a coeducational, private school for students in preschool through middle school serving the Pasadena, CA area. He is also a former Chairman of the Board of the Society of Product Licensor’s Committed to Excellence (SPLiCE). Manny is a member of the Environmental Law Committee of the Alliance of Motion Picture and Television Producers. In addition, he is a member of the Environmental Law Committee of the California Chamber of Commerce and the Los Angeles Area Chamber of Commerce. Manny is also a member of the Los Angeles County Bar Association’s Environmental Law Section.

GEOFFREY GREENBERG, CO-CEO, JUST PLAY, LLC

Geoffrey Greenberg is Co-Founder and Co-CEO of Just Play, LLC, a top-10 North American toy manufacturer over the last five years, and a global leader across a broad range of children’s goods including figures, playsets, dolls, plush, roleplay, and dress-up. Since its inception in 2010, he has overseen Product Development, Marketing, Licensing, and Operations. He was instrumental in establishing Just Play’s operations in Asia, building an office of over 200 people as well as forming manufacturing and R&D facilities. Domestically, he was responsible for building the team and facilities in the Pennsylvania and California corporate offices of over 150 people.

Prior to Just Play, Geoffrey was President of Creative Designs International, LLC (CDI). During his 20+ years with the company, he was responsible for introducing licensed dress-up and roleplay toys to the market. CDI pioneered the roleplay category into a multimillion-dollar toy business by creating strong partnerships with its retailers and licensing partners, including Disney, Nickelodeon, and Mattel.

Geoffrey plays an active role at Just Play in developing award-winning product lines through open collaborative partnership with brand managers, marketers, retailers, licensors, designers, inventors, and manufacturing teams across the globe. With an unparalleled passion for continuous improvement and innovation, he’s always nurturing teams to evolve and equipping them with resources that allow Just Play to deliver against the needs of today’s kids.

As a leader, Geoffrey has always led by example. His level of passion, integrity, and commitment to his relationships and business have created a solid framework from which to build long-lasting success. Together, his new team has experienced phenomenal growth each year nearing $1B in global retail sales, and has won over 100 awards including 8 Toy of the Year® Awards (TOTY®), 18 TOTY finalists, multiple Vendor and Licensee of the Year Awards, and placements on every major top retailer and industry holiday toy list.

Geoffrey earned a BA in Communications and Economics from the University of Pennsylvania and holds a JD from American University. Prior to his career in the toy industry, he worked as an associate in the Corporate Department at the law firm of Wolf, Block Schorr and Solis-Cohen. Currently, Geoffrey also serves on the Governing Board of ICTI CARE Foundation, an independent not-for-profit organization committed to promoting safe and fair working conditions throughout the toy industry supply chain.

JULIE GWALTNEY, VICE PRESIDENT, TOMY INTERNATIONAL

With over 25 years of consumer products experience, Julie has spent a majority of her career in the juvenile products industry working primarily in the infant, toddler and preschool toy sector. With experience on brands both big and small, she has grown brands & IP's globally from the ground-up, as well as launched and maintained evergreen licensed properties. She has also worked with major retailers on both branded and private label programs. Julie is currently Vice President of the Toy Division for TOMY International.

A mom herself, Julie has a passion for innovation, storytelling, and hands-on play/learning. She is particularly passionate about developing products and content that will help educate and build self-confidence in children, and in particular, encourage empowerment in young girls. Julie currently serves on the Women in Toys Licensing and Entertainment Board of Directors, and serves on TOMY’s DEI and ECO steering committees.

SHARON PRICE JOHN, PRESIDENT & CEO, BUILD-A-BEAR WORKSHOP

Sharon Price John has served as president and CEO of Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc. (NYSE: BBW) since 2013, where she has led the turning around and redefining of the multimillion-dollar company and beloved brand while navigating the “retail apocalypse”—and, more recently, a global pandemic—to deliver the most profitable year in the company’s history in 2022 following its previously most profitable year in 2021.

However, before becoming the CEO of a publicly traded company, Sharon was a self-professed tomgirl from Tennessee. With sights beyond her small-town roots, Sharon embarked on a fascinating life journey of challenges and opportunities, including graduating from the University of Tennessee, working in the ad industry in New York City, earning an MBA from Columbia University, managing iconic kids’ brands at companies like Mattel and Hasbro and becoming known as a change agent, and eventually accepting the role of president of the Stride Rite Children’s Group, which led to Sharon taking the helm at Build-A-Bear.

Sharon also serves on the board of directors at Jack in the Box (NASDAQ: JACK), and chairperson of the Toy Association board. She has been named to the University of Tennessee’s Top 100 Alumni of the last 100 years and recognized as a Distinguished Alumni by Columbia Women in Business. In March 2023, she was number six on the Forbes 20 Customer-Centric Companies Led by Women. Additionally, she has also been recognized on numerous prestigious lists, including Ideagen's Top 50 and The CEO Forum's Top 10 CEOs Creating Culture.

Recently, Sharon has authored and published the book “Stories & Heart: Unlock the Power of Personal Stories to Create a Life You Love,” which has achieved impressive success since its release in January 2023. The book has been ranked as an Amazon #1 Best Seller in the Business Mentoring & Coaching category, and has been listed as a best seller in seven additional categories, including Leadership Training, Business Motivation & Self Improvement, and Retailing Industry.

Sharon has three children and lives in St. Louis with her husband, Russ.

MICHAEL KEATON

For 30 years, Michael Keaton has dedicated his career to optimizing the value of premium-brand CPG companies. Whether it’s soft drinks or toys, his passion for building powerful brands and committed teams has been the driving force of his professional life. For the past two decades, Michael has been singularly focused on promoting the benefits of play through his leadership roles within the toy industry.

Michael began his CPG career with The Coca Cola Company as a Sales and Marketing professional. His career in toys began in 2002 with The LEGO Group, first in the North American market and then global roles in Australia and Denmark. As VPGM for LEGO Australia/New Zealand, he served as a Board Member of the Australian Toy Association and later joined the ATA Board’s Executive Committee. While stationed at the LEGO HQ in Denmark, Michael headed up the creative Shopper Marketing Agency, leading packaging development, product launches, the large-model factories, shopper communication and the Shopper Marketing Centre of Excellence, working to create best-in-class in-store experiences. After nearly a decade abroad, Michael returned to the US with The LEGO Group in 2013.

In 2015, Michael accepted the role of President for the North American Division of Schleich GmbH, the global market leader for premium collectible figurines and playsets. From 2019 through 2024, Michael served in the role of CEO for Toysmith, the Washington-based premium toy and gift manufacturer and distributor, whose mission is to turn everyday moments into joyful memories.

In addition to The Toy Foundation, Michael serves on the Board of Directors for The U.S. Toy Association, advancing the growth and sustainability of the toy industry while helping parents and children discover the benefits of creative play.

SKIP KODAK (ADVISOR), REGIONAL PRESIDENT, LEGO GROUP – AMERICAS

Preston F. “Skip” Kodak is Regional President of the Americas market region of the family-owned and privately-held LEGO Group, one of the world’s largest toy companies, based in Billund, Denmark. From Enfield, Connecticut, U.S.A. office, Skip leads sales, marketing, and operations for the global toy brand in the United States, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, and Brazil. He also serves as chairman of the board of directors of the LEGO Community Fund U.S.

Skip joined LEGO Group in 2002 as Vice President, U.S. Field Sales. He became Vice President, U.S. Customer Development in 2004. In 2006, Skip was named Vice President, global Direct-to-Consumer and Outbound Licensing, responsible for all sales, marketing and operations of the company’s owned shopping channels and development of lifestyle categories with partners. In 2008, he became Vice President, global Direct-to-Consumer and Merlin Affairs, leading the collaboration and synergy with the company’s strategic operating partner of LEGOLAND® Parks and LEGOLAND® Discovery Centers worldwide. In 2009, he was promoted to Senior Vice President. In 2012, he joined Corporate Management as Senior Vice President for Shopper Marketing and Channel Development. In 2014, Skip was appointed Senior Vice President, global Supply Chain Planning & Distribution. He was appointed to his current role in 2016 and was a member of the Executive Leadership team from 2017-2020.

Prior to joining LEGO Group, Skip held various sales and marketing roles at the Heinz Company (2000-2002), at Ocean Spray Cranberries, Inc. (1994-2000), and at Procter & Gamble (1987-1993).

Skip is passionate and committed to advancing the needs of underserved children and families at risk. His interests include the many activities in which he and his family participate together, recreational sports, and traveling. He is a member of the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center board of directors and is Chairman Emeritus of the Toy Association.

Skip has a Bachelor of Arts in Government from Dartmouth College.

He and his wife Nicole are blessed with 5 children.

SUNNY LAURIDSEN, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT, LICENSING & BRAND STRATEGY, JUST PLAY

Sunny has been working in the toy industry for over 15 years, starting her career in Toys in Licensing at The Walt Disney Company. She had the privilege of working on Consumer Electronics and Preschool Licensing. The highlight of her time at Disney was partnering with the Disney Channel to launch Doc McStuffins and the entire Disney Junior suite of brands at retail.

After 7 years with Disney, Sunny took a leap and joined colleagues from Disney in the launch of a start-up toy company. Sunny served as SVP, Sales and Marketing for Cartwheel Kids. The deep dive into launching a toy start-up solidified Sunny’s passion for the business of making toys.

In 2015, Sunny joined the Just Play team. She heads up the LA office and is responsible for Licensing and studio relations as well as leading the development of brand strategies across the Just Play portfolio.

Starting at a young age, Sunny was exposed to volunteer work in the community and abroad through church and community groups. As an adult, she has volunteered in food kitchens, as an AYSO coach and in various capacities at her kids’ schools. She looks forward to serving on the Board of Trustees of the Toy Foundation to pay forward the incredible experiences and opportunities that being in the toy industry has provided her with.

ASHLEY MADY, PRESIDENT, ZIGAZOO KIDS

Ashley Mady is President of Zigazoo Kids, the largest social network for Kids. Her past roles include VP of Brand Development at IT’SUGAR, the largest specialty candy retailer with 100 stores across the country and VP of Brand Development at toy manufacturer, Basic Fun! In 2009, Ashley founded and helmed the brand licensing and creative agency, Brandberry. There she spent close to a decade launching new IP from the ground up and reinvigorating established brands.

From 2014-2020 she served as president of the global non-profit Women In Toys, Licensing and Entertainment. She currently sits on the board of The Toy Association, where she chairs Genius of Play and serves on the Board of Trustees of the Toy Foundation.

KRISTIN MCKAY, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT AND GENERAL MANAGER – GLOBAL BRANDS, HASBRO, INC.

Kristin McKay currently serves as the Senior Vice President and General Manager – Global Brands at Hasbro, Inc. A critical team member at Hasbro since 2010, she has experience across product development, marketing, and commercial divisions to deliver new and innovative play and entertainment experiences to kids and families worldwide – while also delivering against corporate growth objectives.

Kristin was promoted to lead the global strategic vision for Fashion and Preschool Portfolio (6 brands) in 2022 and spearheaded a long-term growth plan to drive over $2B+ of retail revenue. Additionally, she drove the product, marketing, and commercial strategy for the 2023 brand relaunch of Furby, achieving the #1 new toy launch position within Special Feature Plush in 5 markets, while over delivering revenue goals. To drive this revenue and profit growth and selling the vision to internal leadership and external customers, Kristin coaches, mentors, and leads a high-performing, cross-functional team of 65 people in developing brand strategy, entertainment, product, and marketing plans.

Recognized as a trusted collaborator and communicator at Hasbro, Kristin is frequently selected for company-wide process improvement task forces with results in reducing volume of internal meetings, improving downstream alignment, and influencing employee work life balance.

Kristin lives in the Greater Boston area where she is also a kickboxing instructor, inspiring individuals to reach their goals and uncover abilities they might not even know they possess. Kristin is also a member of Chief, a private network built to drive and strengthen women’s leadership journeys.

SARA ROSALES MONTALVO, SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT COMMUNICATIONS, JAZWARES

Sara is a communication and public relations strategist with global brands experience and a passion for enabling companies to tell their greatest stories. She is skilled at creating relevancy, driving engagement and reimagining communications to drive business goals.

Throughout Sara’s career she has directed public relations campaigns for diverse global brands represented in consumer products, entertainment, and lifestyle - programs that infuse brands into popular culture, as well as consumers hearts and minds. She has experience with top-tier consumer and business media, and she knows how to effectively use social media to ignite engagement.

Sought after for defending corporate reputation, she was brought in to craft the "day of" media relations strategy for Mattel's largest product recall. That "day of" media relations campaign was applauded by PR trades and influencers as an example of how to effectively manage a crisis.

A trusted advisor to senior leadership, she is a strong leader who understands how PR supports marketing and sales goals. She is also a big believer in collaborating cross-functionally to proactively work together to meet business objectives, address issues and ensure flawless execution to exceed desired results.

AARON MUDERICK, INVENTOR OF THINKING PUTTY AND EXECUTIVE CHAIRMAN OF CRAZY AARON’S

Aaron Muderick is the innovator and creative force behind Thinking Putty®, a groundbreaking stress reliever and fidget sold in over 25 countries. From magnetic to color-changing varieties, he's revolutionized what putty can do. More recent creations like Land of Dough® and Slime Charmers™ have introduced sustainability and extended play value to otherwise mature categories.

As Executive Chairman of Crazy Aaron’s, Aaron has gone beyond innovation to also champion socially responsible manufacturing for over 25 years. Products are made in the USA and provide daily employment to hundreds of individuals with special needs.

Aaron is more than a business leader; he's also a thought leader in the industry. His insights have been showcased in media outlets from The Philadelphia Inquirer to The Today Show. In 2019, he was elected to the board of the Toy Association, where he currently serves as Executive Chairman. He's also an advocate for product safety, testifying before the US Senate Judiciary Committee to push for stricter toy regulations online.

Prior to reshaping the toy world, Aaron honed his tech skills with a B.S. in Computer Science from the University of Rochester and then working as a software engineer for Fortune 500 giants such as Apple and Microsoft.

Community service runs in his veins. A twelve-year veteran of his local town council, half of which he spent as President—Aaron continues his community service as an active volunteer firefighter and has served as pyrotechnics leader for the annual fireworks display. As a long-standing treasurer of the nonprofit GEEO, he’s enabling teachers—and through them, their students—to broaden their horizons by traveling abroad.

A committed father and an eclectic hobbyist, Aaron restores old cameras and captures the world through their lenses’ in his limited downtime. Residing just outside Philadelphia with his teenage daughters, his nights are dedicated to research—be it Wikipedia or toy safety regulations. For Aaron Muderick, the quest for knowledge never sleeps.

ANDREW (ANDY) QUARTIN, CEO, THAMES & KOSMOS

Andy Quartin currently serves as the CEO of Thames & Kosmos, a leading publisher of educational toys & games. He is responsible for the North American business unit of Kosmos GmbH – a 200-year-old privately-held publisher of books, educational toys, and games.

Andy has chaperoned Thames & Kosmos through 10 years of record growth and profitability while continuing to deliver on its vision to give all children access to real, physical activities and projects that teach them about how things work.

Previously, from 2002 to 2012, Andrew held various roles in the financial sector, where he managed investment portfolios of media, retail, technology, and diversified consumer products companies.

Before that, Andy was President of Turn up the Music (Drew’s famous Party Music), the leading party music publisher and distributor in North America. Through innovative marketing and merchandising strategies, Turn up the Music achieved eight consecutive years of record revenue and profitability, over 25 million records sold, and multiple gold and platinum records.

He is a graduate of Towson State University (Economics). Andy cherishes the time he has with his family, is a mediocre amateur golfer, and is a below-average beginner guitarist.

MICHAEL RINZLER, TOY GUY, ENTREPRENEUR, PHILANTHROPIST, INVESTOR

Michael Rinzler is a kid at heart and toy industry expert who has created an impact on some of the most iconic and beloved play and entertainment brands in the industry, including Pokémon, Cabbage Patch Kids, Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles, Disney Princess, Squishmallows and Hot Wheels, to name a few. Michael launched his career in the toy business in 1993, holding leadership positions with some of the toy industry’s leading companies, including MGA Entertainment, Mattel, Playmates, and JAKKS Pacific.

In 2012, Michael founded Wicked Cool Toys, which grew to become a major industry player in only a few years. The company was widely regarded for its innovation and modern marketing tactics. It served as master toy partners for Pokémon and Cabbage Patch Kids, along with launching successful products such as the Toy of the Year® Award winning Teddy Ruxpin relaunch and nominated Girl Scouts Cookie Oven and Blinger hair decorating tool.

In 2019, he and his partners sold Wicked Cool Toys to Alleghany Capital/Jazwares. Michael served as Executive Vice President and Partner at Jazwares for three years before departing the company after a second exit upon the sale of Jazwares to Berkshire Hathaway.

Rinz, as he’s known to colleagues and friends, remains active in the toy industry. He currently serves on The Toy Foundation’s Board of Trustees Executive Committee and Chair of the Development & Fundraising Committee and is an advisor to Women in Toys.

Outside of the toy industry, Rinz, alongside his wife Zyta and daughter Zoe, is active in his community. They are Founders Society members at the Joe DiMaggio Children’s Hospital and support many other community-based organizations and causes concerning children, animals, and cancer.

Michael has a B.A. from Washington University and an M.B.A. from The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania.

TAMMY SMITHAM, VICE PRESIDENT, COMMUNICATIONS & CORPORATE SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY, SPIN MASTER

An experienced communications and corporate social responsibility professional with a passion for innovation and driving results, Tammy Smitham joined Spin Master, a leading global children’s entertainment company, in 2018 as Vice President, Communications & Corporate Social Responsibility. Upon joining, Tammy led global external and internal communications, public relations and was charged with launching the company’s corporate social responsibility strategy. In 2020, her role evolved to also include oversight of Spin Master’s philanthropy strategy and programming with the goal of giving children the opportunity to grow and learn through play.

Prior to joining Spin Master, Tammy managed communications and corporate affairs functions for a number of publicly traded Canadian companies including Aimia (Aeroplan), Loblaw Companies Limited and Shoppers Drug Mart. During her career, she has developed and executed strategic communication plans and implemented CSR and corporate giving initiatives across a variety of business categories including pharmacy, healthcare, food retailing and beauty, with the goal of enhancing, promoting and protecting brand reputation.

VOIN TODOROVIC, CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER, BUILD-A-BEAR WORKSHOP, INC.

Since 2014, Voin Todorovic has been Chief Financial Officer for Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc., a publicly traded company offering an interactive retail-entertainment experience, where he oversees the treasury, corporate finance, information technology, and merchandise planning and sourcing functions.

Prior to his current role, Voin was employed at Wolverine World Wide, Inc., a leading global footwear and apparel company, where he served as the head of finance and operations for its lifestyle group, which included iconic brands such as Sperry Top-Sider®, Hush Puppies®, Keds®, and Stride Rite®. From 2011 to 2013, he was Vice President-Finance and Administration of the Stride Rite Children’s Group business, operating in wholesale, direct-to-consumer, and international franchising. From 2010 to 2011, he was Vice President of the Performance + Lifestyle Group. Prior to his tenure at Wolverine World Wide, he held positions of increasing responsibility at Collective Brands, Inc., and Payless ShoeSource.

Voin currently serves as the President of the Build-A-Bear Foundation. He also serves on the Advisory Board - Center for Finance and Accounting Research - Olin Business School, at Washington University.

He holds a Bachelor of Science in Finance and MBA from Missouri State University.

ANTHONY TRANI, CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER, ELENCO ELETRONICS LLC

Anthony Trani currently serves as the CEO of Elenco Electronics LLC. Elenco’s iconic flagship brand, Snap Circuits, has been helping kids and parents learn through play for over 20 years.

Anthony began his career as an auditor at PricewaterhouseCoopers before pivoting to consumer-packaged goods. Throughout his career, Anthony has had the privilege to work on iconic brands including Fig Newtons, Ritz Crackers, Ring Pop, and Bazooka Bubblegum. He joins the toy industry after over 12 years at Bazooka Candy Brands, where he led Global Marketing and Innovation, built Bazooka Candy Brands’ e-commerce business, and served as General Manager of Latin America. Anthony is passionate about creating moments of joy for kids and their families.

Service has always been incredibly important to Anthony. In addition to The Toy Foundation, Anthony also serves on the Board of Brooklyn Community Housing and Services, an organization dedicated to ending homelessness in Brooklyn, NY, most recently serving as Vice Chair. While in the confections industry, Anthony worked closely with The National Confectioners Association on a range of industry initiatives and served as Chair of the Confectionery Foundation.

Anthony received his undergraduate degree from The College of the Holy Cross and his MBA from Harvard Business School. He currently lives in Illinois with his wife, three daughters (9, 6, 1), and miniature dachshund (14).

ANDREW WEINER, CHIEF ADVISOR, TOY'N AROUND INC.

Andy is a 47-year veteran of the toy industry, who began his career at the Milton Bradley Company in 1975. During his time at Milton Bradley, Andy held various positions in administration and ultimately ended up in their sales force. When he left Milton Bradley in 1983, he held the position of Southwest Regional Sales Manager with primary responsibility for Walmart Stores.

Since then, Andy has served the industry as a manufacturer's representative in the central and upper Midwest, starting with Dan Buckey Associates, the firm that later morphed into Toy’n Around and is headquartered in Minneapolis. Over the past 37 years, he has participated in the launch of several major toy brands, including Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles (TMNT), Tech Deck, Vtech and Squinkies. Today, his firm continues to represent several iconic brands including TMNT Animal Planet and Crazy Art, as well as emerging brands like Basic Fun! and Ryan’s World from Bonkers Toys.

Beginning with a five-year service as a firefighter/EMT Andy has an extensive background in nonprofit board work. He has held the position of chairman of Make-A-Wish Minnesota and at Children’s Cancer Research Fund, the largest contributor to Pediatric medicine at the University of Minnesota (U of M). Additionally, he has served on the Philanthropic Board of the U of M Masonic Children’s Hospital. Currently he is a Director for the Western Golf Association (Evans Scholars Foundation) and Chairperson of the Board for The Toy Foundation. Andy is also serving his third term as a member of the Board of Directors of The Toy Association as well as he is currently the Chairperson of the BOG Indian Wells Country Club.

Andy graduated from University of Hartford with a BA and Southern Illinois University Edwardsville with his MBA.

Married 43 years to wife, Marci, his life revolves around his daughters, Melissa and Halley, and his six grandchildren.

BRIAN WEISS, PRESIDENT, GOLIATH GAMES NORTH AMERICA

Brian Weiss currently serves as the President of Goliath Games North America, a family-owned company with a mission to bring fun to every household. In his role, Brian brings his expertise in sales, marketing, and innovation to create toys and games that inspire young minds and adults alike to reach beyond their imagination.

Prior to joining Goliath Games North America in 2022, Brian was a leader in sales and marketing for a number of companies, including Moose Toys, Impact Sales & Marketing, Inc., and JAKKS Pacific.

Brian is a graduate of Cornell University and currently resides in Manhattan Beach, CA.