Spin Master Appoints New Franchise and Products Lead

Spin Master, the innovative toy company and media powerhouse behind beloved brands like Unicorn Academy and the iconic Rubik’s Cube, has announced the appointment of a new leader for its franchise and products division.

Maryellen Zarakas Joins as Senior Vice President

Maryellen Zarakas, a seasoned professional with extensive experience at Warner Bros. and its parent companies, will step into the role of Senior Vice President of Global Consumer Products and Franchise Development at Spin Master. She will report directly to Jennifer Dodge, President of Spin Master Entertainment.

A Proven Leader in Brand Development

“Maryellen is a dynamic, results-driven leader with profound expertise in global business development, franchise and brand building, marketing strategy, and retail merchandising for iconic companies,” said Dodge. “Her passion for harnessing the intersection of content, community, and commerce, combined with her proven track record of driving growth, makes her an invaluable addition to our team.”

Extensive Experience in the Entertainment Industry

Zarakas comes to Spin Master from Warner Bros. Discovery, where she managed a global team focused on strategic growth across intellectual properties and enhancing consumer product visibility. Her impressive portfolio includes franchises such as Harry Potter, Looney Tunes, Scooby-Doo, and elements from Peter Jackson’s “The Lord of the Rings.” Additionally, she has held various roles at The Walt Disney Company, contributing to products and brand management for beloved characters like the Disney princesses, Mickey Mouse, Winnie the Pooh, and those from “Toy Story.”

Driving Brand Growth at Spin Master

At Spin Master, Zarakas will also lead efforts in licensing, retail development, and partnerships to enhance brands such as Vida the Vet and Toca Boca.

Inspired by Spin Master’s Vision

“Throughout my career, I’ve had numerous opportunities to collaborate with the Spin Master team, and I’ve always been inspired by their dedication to creating properties and brands that captivate audiences and spark imagination,” Zarakas shared.

Strategic Focus on Content Creation

Spin Master is aiming for a similar transformation as Mattel has achieved in recent years, emphasizing content creation as a key revenue stream. In February, the company announced the hiring of director Brad Peyton (“Atlas,” “Rampage,” “San Andreas”) to helm a film adaptation of the successful anime adventure franchise Bakugan.

“`
This rephrased content maintains the original context while enhancing engagement and relevance for business leaders in the film and television entertainment industry. Important keywords are highlighted, and the tone is conversational yet professional.