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ZAG: Gaye Dean, VP of NA Retail Development
Award-winning global independent animation studio ZAG announced the appointment of Gaye Dean, a thirty-plus year veteran of Target Corporation, as Vice President, North America Retail Development. e announcement was made by Jeremy Zag, Founder and CEO, ZAG. Reporting to Lisa K. Foster, Sr. Vice President, Licensing, North America, Gaye Dean will manage strategic relationships for ZAG across all tiers of retail throughout North America for the roster of properties under the ZAG Heroez label—an umbrella brand franchise that brings together the superheroes from ZAG’s animated properties.
Universal P&E: Rafael Macias, EVP, Global Commercial O cer, Consumer Products
As part of a strategic global expansion to deliver premium, fan- rst products and retail experiences worldwide, Universal Products & Experiences (UP&E), announced the appointment of Rafael “Rafa” Macias to the newly created position, EVP, Global Commercial O cer, Consumer Products. Reporting to Vince Klaseus, President, Universal Products & Experiences, Macias will lead UP&E’s global commercial strategies, overseeing the development and execution of the company’s consumer products, retail sales and marketing businesses around the world.
PlayMonster: Steve Adolph, CEO
“I’m thrilled to be assuming the role of Chief Executive O cer of PlayMonster,” says Steve Adolph. “I am grateful to Tim for his support and mentorship over the past few months, and to the entire organization for their con dence in my leadership. I look forward to ensuring that PlayMonster continues to amplify its strong global foothold in the toy and game industry.”
Brain Power: Jasmine Gard VP of Finance and Operations
Brain Power Studio, a global entertainment content creator and distributor, has appointed former Net ix and 9 Story Media Group exec, Jasmine Gard, as its new VP of Finance and Operations. In the role, Jasmine Gard will oversee all aspects of nance and accounting operations at Brain Power as well as provide strategic guidance around capital nancing options. Gard will manage production and corporate nance as well as risk management activities. She will lead consolidation e orts and manage relationships with third party lenders and auditors.
e Insights Family: Rachel Bardill SVP of Marketing & Partnerships
e Insights Family – the global leader in kids, teens, parents, and family market intelligence – has announced the appointment of former BBC Executive Rachel Bardill to lead their marketing and partnerships team as part of its future growth strategy. Former BBC executive, Rachel Bardill, is an industry expert in children, teens, parents, and families. She has led on digital product, app development, games, brand strategy and digital commissioning for some of the biggest media brands. Much has evolved in the digital landscape in the last twenty years, and Rachel has led with a progressive mindset to remain ahead of the curve.
Just Play: Shari Mann, Head of International
Just Play, a leading global play company behind several bestselling toy lines with partners including Disney, Moonbug Entertainment, Nickelodeon, and Sesame Workshop is adding to its leadership team with the appointment of Shari Mann as the company’s Head of International. Mann brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to Just Play with almost 20 years in the toy industry focusing on international business. “I’m freshly inspired by the growth opportunities ahead, and look forward to spearheading Just Play’s international evolution, while continuing to deliver a high level of service to our customers and licensors,” said Mann.