Toronto-based Spin Master Corp. is expanding its Hollywood ambitions.
The company hired Heather Oster to serve as its vice president, global franchise development. Oster, who will be based in Spin Master’s Los Angeles office, will report to Spin Master Entertainment’s executive vice president Jennifer Dodge. Oster previously led consumer products and franchise management programs for both animated and live-action franchises at the Walt Disney Co., Pixar, Universal, and DreamWorks across brands including Disney•Pixar Cars, Jurassic World, Disney Princess, Toy Story, The Muppets, and Trolls.
In her new role, Oster will be responsible for initiating Spin Master’s franchise strategy, including brand development and stewardship, intellectual property (IP) evaluation, and portfolio leadership for the company’s entertainment franchise initiatives, including the launch of the Mighty Express franchise.
“Heather is an experienced and forward-thinking franchise and brand executive with a talent for bringing brands to life through deep audience engagement, compelling storytelling, and insightful business analysis,” says Dodge. “Heather will be instrumental in shaping Spin Master’s long-term entertainment franchise strategy as she identifies and shapes brands to build audiences, gain share of heart, and extend revenue opportunities across the company.”
Mighty Express will debut on Netflix this fall to kick off the Spin Master-owned franchise. Unlike previous franchises such as PAW Patrol, Spin Master will retain distribution rights (outside of SVOD). The company plans a full rollout for a Mighty Express toy line and a consumer products licensing program next year.
