Sanrio Bolsters Retail Team

Company places four new executives in key positions to drive retail development.

Sanrio has appointed four key executives–Craig Takiguchi, Jill Cook, Stephanie Simpson and Dave Marchi–in its retail and branding divisions, effective immediately.

Craig Takiguchi joins Sanrio as vice president of retail business development. In his new role he will be responsible for implementing new business strategies with partners and strengthening relationships with Sanrio’s retail accounts. Prior to joining Sanrio, Takiguchi was vice president of brand management at Yogurtland. He has also held key positions at Muginoho International, Sony Pictures Entertainment, PepsiCo and The Walt Disney Company.

Jill Cook has transitioned from director of soft lines for Sanrio licensing to Takiguchi’s team and will serve as director of retail business development. In her role, she will focus on expanding Sanrio’s retail business partnerships.

Dave Marchi has been promoted to vice president of brand management and marketing. In his new role, he will continue to oversee the expansion of the brand through experimental activations and collaboration programs. He will also oversee Sanrio’s public relations and marketing initiatives. Marchi has been with Sanrio since 2001 and has been with the brand management and marketing branch since 2010.

Finally, Stephanie Simpson has been promoted to director of retail merchandising and will focus on specialty retail merchandising initiatives and the continued development of Sanrio’s retail stores. Simpson joined Sanrio in 2014 and has previously worked at Forever 21, Love Culture, Bebe and Wet Seal.

“Sanrio is dedicated and focused at driving our retail business and evolving our brand,” says Ken Yamamoto, chief operating officer, Sanrio. “These appointments bring expertise, passion and experience to Sanrio as we continue to develop our retail presence and expand our business ventures.”