Kartoon Studios has appointed finance veteran Brian Parisi as its Chief Financial Officer, following former Chief Financial Officer Bob Denton’s transition to Executive Vice President, Finance & Accounting. Kartoon Studios produces, distributes, markets, licenses, and creates entertainment brands for children.
Parisi brings with him experience from several financial and corporate development positions across the entertainment and media industries and most recently served as the Chief Financial Officer at Break the Floor Productions prior to joining Kartoon Studios. In his former role, Parisi was responsible for overseeing the analysis of mergers and acquisitions, as well as risk management.
“I am honored to join Kartoon Studios at this exciting time in the company’s growth. I look forward to collaborating with the executive team, as the company implements a comprehensive strategy to drive revenues and enhance profitability,” Parisi says. “I see the potential for creating additional operating efficiencies and increasing long-term shareholder value. I am optimistic about what lies ahead for Kartoon Studios and look forward to playing an active role in its future success.”
Parisi also served as the Chief Financial Officer at the NFL Hall of Fame Village, where he oversaw a range of financial activities. This included financial reporting, cash management, and tax compliance. Parisi has held leadership positions at Warner Bros. Entertainment, Live Nation Entertainment, and Universal Studios as well.
“It is my privilege to welcome Brian to our high-caliber executive team. At this pivotal moment in Kartoon Studios’ evolution, Brian’s specialized skill set in financial management, coupled with his rich experience in the entertainment industry, could not be more timely or relevant,” says Andy Heyward, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Kartoon Studios. “As a company, we have been steadfast in our commitment to streamline operations with a meticulous eye on cost control, aiming for long-term, sustainable growth and profitability. In line with these goals, we are in the midst of executing a comprehensive strategy to reduce operating costs across the company, as we grow our core businesses and brands. We believe that Brian’s deep financial expertise will not only augment our existing capabilities, but also serve as an invaluable resource in our mission to optimize financial performance, steer Kartoon Studios toward a profitable future, and enhance long-term shareholder value.”
“It is also important to acknowledge the exceptional work Bob Denton has done as our CFO,” Heyward adds. “He has been a key figure in the evolution of this company — from its origins as Genius Brands, listed on Nasdaq, to its recent rebranding as Kartoon Studios, listed on the NYSE American. Bob has played a key role in transforming us from an emerging children’s entertainment company into a multifaceted global enterprise. As we shift into high gear, focusing on cost-efficiency and fiscal responsibility, aimed at achieving sustained profitability, we look forward to Bob’s continued contributions in his new role as Executive Vice President, Finance & Accounting.”
