You’re Hired!

People of Play: Jenna Stirling, Executive Director

With her background, Jenna brings a unique perspective and deep industry knowledge to People of Play. As Executive Director, Jenna will lead the team in developing innovative initiatives, such as regular retailer sales calls, “About the Inventor” shelf talkers, consumer toy and game guides, engaging networking events, and influencer-attracting play activations. People of Play is excited to have Jenna on board and looks forward to the positive impact she will make, as she continues to champion the importance of play and foster connections within the industry and beyond.

WildBrain: Josh Scherba, President, CEO

Scherba is a deeply experienced executive drawing on over 20 years in the global industry, who has been with WildBrain since its founding in 2006. Well known in the entertainment industry as the primary face of business for WildBrain, Scherba has built strong, long-term relationships with numerous major partners, including Apple TV+, Netflix, Amazon, SEGA, YouTube, the BBC, LEGO, Mattel and many others. Most recently, Scherba was the driving force behind WildBrain’s agreement to acquire House of Cool, to significantly expand the Company’s capabilities for premium series, specials and features.

University Games: Daniel Fox, Division Manager, Briarpatch

In his new role, Daniel Fox will be responsible for the management of the current University Games’ Briarpatch catalog of games and puzzles for children and preschoolers, as well as continued product development for the company’s successful I SPY, Pete the Cat, The World of Eric Carle, and Richard Scarry lines. Fox is the former Executive Creative Director, Game Design for Andrews McMeel Universal, where he spent four years developing game titles, including the the ENNIE award-winning Zweihander RPG.

Hasbro: Gina Goetter, CFO

Tim Kilpin, President, Toy Licensing & Entertainment

Gina Goetter brings over 25 years of experience across finance and accounting, with a demonstrated track record in driving strong financial and operational results. She joins Hasbro from Harley-Davidson, where she has served as chief financial officer since 2020. Prior to that, Gina has held senior roles at Tyson Foods and General Mills.

Tim Kilpin brings extensive experience in the consumer products industry and is uniquely positioned to oversee Hasbro’s multi-billion-dollar toy business.Tim joins Hasbro from PlayMonster, where he most recently served as executive chairman since January 2023 and as CEO from January 2022.

Perfetti Van Melle: Marta Ballesteros Global Licensing Manager

Marta brings a wealth of knowledge, strong international sales experience of over 22 years in licensing, and solid management skills that will be a tremendous asset to lead the unstoppable growth of Perfetti’s global licensing program with its brands Mentos, Chupa Chups, Airheads, Frisk, Brooklyn, Smint, Fruit-tella, Alpenliebe and Big Babol. Marta comments: “Taking on global responsibilities is not just an appointment - it’s a true honor and opportunity to lead and collaborate with talented individuals. When I look back at the impressive evolution of Perfetti brands in licensing, I feel incredibly proud. But what excites me even more is the future.”

Toikido USA: Darryl Lai, Managing Director for the Americas

A respected business leader with an illustrious career in global licensing and operations, Lai previously served as Senior Vice President (Americas) at global licensing and product solutions agency, Maxx Marketing, where he led global development and the retail product division for toys & collectibles.

During his tenure at the company, he led high-performing teams across various continents and worked with the biggest brands and companies in entertainment, including The Walt Disney Company, Netflix, Marvel, Paramount, WB, and Crunchyroll.