The winds of change are blowing within The Toy Association.
Following the expiration of his contract in April, Toy Association President and CEO Steve Pasierb will exit the organization. Former VTech North America President Andy Keimach will assume the role of Interim President in the coming months as a Transition Committee seeks to fill the vacant chief executive slot.
It has been a distinct honor and privilege to serve in the role of President and CEO of The Toy Association and I count myself fortunate to be among those over the past 107 years to hold this position. It has been a wonderful journey of strategic actions, change management, legislative wins, and accomplishments working alongside our dedicated board, more than 1,000 members, and a passionate and talented professional team. I look forward to collaborating with the executive committee and our staff to make certain of a smooth and effective transition over the coming months.”
The Toy Association’s Board of Directors has contracted leadership advisory firm Spencer Stuart to assist in its search for a new chief executive.
According to a statement from The Toy Association, Keimach will “take on bicoastal responsibilities” in Los Angeles and New York as he steps down from the Board of Directors were he served on the Executive Committee as Treasurer. Board Chairperson Aaron Muderick will fill Keimach’s role on the Executive Committee.
The next year could prove crucial for The Toy Association as it evolves amid the changing needs of the industry it serves. One major pain point has been around Toy Fair, which was derailed by the COVID-19 pandemic and has since been the subject of heated debate due to timing, location, and other factors. While the Association has reaffirmed a commitment to New York, the U.S. toy industry continues leaning into the “LA Previews, including the growth of a “new Toy Building” in El Segundo, California. In October, the Toy Association said that it was exploring ways to play a “meaningful role” in supporting members with the LA Previews.
“The Association remains focused on the evolving needs of our diverse members, the changing role of trade shows and market events, and is poised to continue its service to members under new leadership,” Muderick says.
