PEOPLE
NEWS Sales restructure at
Character Options
Richard Dinham
Athony Thorpe
Sally Hunter
Character Options has announced several changes to its sales structure as part of an internal review to ensure the company is well positioned for growth. Homegrown talents Richard Dinham and Anthony Thorpe have been promoted to senior national account manager roles in recognition of their “first-rate professional approach and respect within the business”. Sales director David Bramford said: “I’m really pleased for Richard and Anthony, as they have both played an integral part in Character Options’ success in recent years. And from a personal perspective, it’s brilliant to have the opportunity to promote internally.” In addition, Sally Hunter is joining the company as senior national account manager. She replaces Guy Rooney, who is leaving to take on a new industry role. David commented: “Sally’s professional approach alongside her contagious enthusiasm - will perfectly complement Anthony, Richard and the rest of the team. Over the years we have always felt she would be an ideal fit for Character and whilst I would like to personally thank Guy for his excellent contribution, equally I’m sure Sally will relish taking this opportunity.”
MGA UK recruits new Zapf Creation sales director MGA UK & Ireland has appointed Guy Rooney to the role of Zapf Creation sales director. Reporting to UK and Ireland managing director Neil Bandtock, the newly created position will oversee the portfolio of Zapf’s award-winning brands including Baby Annabell, BABY born and BABY born Surprise. Joining the team following four years with Character Group, Guy will take up the position at the end of September. He joins with a wealth of experience in the toy and retail industry, including senior sales roles with IMC Toys and retail management positions with Argos and Homebase. Neil said: “We’re delighted to welcome Guy to the team. Zapf is home to a number of evergreen and hugely successful brands, and the addition of Guy as sales director will elevate this success to the next level. Our UK and Ireland retailers will really benefit from this increased focus.” Guy commented: “I’m thrilled to be joining the Zapf team and can’t wait to get started. I’m looking forward to having the opportunity of supporting our customers and increasing the sales of these well-loved brands.”
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New talent joins University Games sales and marketing teams University Games and The Lagoon Group have made two key appointments, contributing to the growth of both the sales and marketing departments. University Games has welcomed Victoria Reece in the marketing assistant role as the business continues to strategically develop strength and depth in this department. Marketing director Gemma Lewington said: Victoria Reece “Victoria is such a bright and enthusiastic individual and we are very excited to have her as part of our team. She comes to us from Viegli UK, where she was heavily involved with website development and asset creation, as well as a wealth of campaign management across both B2C and B2B.” Meanwhile, Liz Price has been appointed as new territory manager for the Midlands and North England. She brings a wealth of knowledge, with a decade of retail experience and over six years of specialising in toys, games, and licences. Liz said: Liz Price “University Games are innovative, forward-thinking and passionate about what they do, I’m really enjoying being part of this dynamic team.” University Games and The Lagoon Group has a comprehensive portfolio of products to cater for the whole family, from preschool through to adult. Some of the ever-popular lines include Subbuteo, Smart Ass, Sort it Out, Kersplatt, What’s Up and Don’t Say it, as well as Football Stadium and Harry Potter 3D puzzles.
Jazwares adds directors to EMEA team Jazwares has appointed Matt Stent as European commercial director and Samantha Bourne as European licensing director as part of its ambitious European growth strategy. Matt joins the company after almost two decades at Argos & Sainsburys, most recently as the buying manager for sports, leisure, outdoor toys & nursery, reporting to Jonny Taylor, SVP Europe. Matt will be responsible for growing Jazwares’ business in Europe both through its regional offices and third-party distributors. Samantha Bourne, the former head of licensing and brand at Rubie’s Masquerade, brings a wealth of experience within licensed consumer goods. Reporting to global VP of licensing Sam Ferguson, her role as EMEA licensing director will focus on ensuring Jazwares delivers commercial value and results to global licensing partners. Jazwares has also expanded its UK team with 10 hires to fill newly created positions across licensing, sales, marketing, operations, and business intelligence. Jonny Taylor said: “We are thrilled to be adding such strong talent to our team, to match our growth both in the UK and across Europe. Exciting times ahead!”
toysnplaythings.media 02/09/2021 17:21
