The American Specialty Toy Retailing Association (Astra) is entering a leadership transition as Executive Director Sue Warfield steps down after six years at the helm.
Astra appointed Kathy Trivisonno as Interim Executive Director, effective today, July 24. Trivisonno, who currently serves as Director of Operations, will oversee day-to-day operations, member programs, and planning for Marketplace & Academy while the Board of Directors conducts a national search for Warfield’s successor.
“On behalf of the entire board, I want to thank Sue for her years of dedication and service to Astra and to the specialty toy community,” said Sandra Malott, Board Chair. “Astra has experienced tremendous growth over the last several years, and Sue has been an important part of that story. In collaboration with Sue, the board has been working towards a succession plan and is committed to a thoughtful, well-managed transition.”
Warfield became Executive Director in 2020 and helped guide Astra through a period of growth and change for specialty retail as it navigated the global pandemic, tariffs, and evolving consumer habits.
“It’s been an honor and my pleasure to serve Astra and its community,” Warfield said. “Since taking on the Executive Director role … it’s been my goal to ensure that whenever it was time for new leadership, Astra was in a financially sound and positive position. Kathy will do an amazing job to keep that momentum going for our industry and members.”
The Board has already started its formal search process and plans to keep members updated as it moves toward selecting a permanent Executive Director.
Astra will recognize Warfield’s contributions to the organization and specialty toy industry at Marketplace & Academy in Pittsburgh in 2027.
Founded in 1992, Astra represents more than 1,800 independent retailers, manufacturers, and sales representatives serving the specialty toy business.
Each issue of The Toy Book includes Astra’s Insights, offering updates from the specialty toy community. Sue Warfield’s final byline on the column appears in The Toy Book’s 2026 Action, Adventure, & Mystery Issue, which is hitting mailboxes now.
