Hasbro, Inc. Chairman and CEO Brian D. Goldner is taking a medical leave of absence, effective immediately with Rich Stoddart appointed interim CEO.
The news follows last year’s disclosure that Goldner had been undergoing continued medical care following treatment for cancer in 2014.
“After careful consideration, I have decided to take a medical leave to focus on my health,” Goldner says. “I feel confident knowing the company will be in the skilled hands of Rich Stoddart as interim CEO, our highly experienced management team, and the best employees in the business. Hasbro’s future couldn’t be brighter as we continue to ‘Supercharge the Blueprint’ and build the world’s leading play and entertainment company.”
Stoddart is hailed as an expert in brand-building, advertising and marketing, and supply chain management due to his time as CEO at InnerWorkings Inc. and Leo Burnette Worldwide. He joined the Hasbro board of directors in 2014 and most recently served as its lead independent director.
“I am humbled to step in as interim CEO and lead the company as it continues to execute the ‘Brand Blueprint’ strategy, while Brian takes time to focus on his health,” Stoddart says. “Hasbro has the most creative teams across the consumer products, digital gaming, and entertainment businesses, and there’s no limit to what we can accomplish together.”
As Stoddart assumes his new role, Edward M. Philip has been re-appointed as lead independent director, and Tracy A. Leinbach has been named chair of the Nominating, Governance, and Social Responsibility Committee of the Hasbro board of directors.
Goldner joined Hasbro in 2000.
