Jazwares Names New SVP, Global Licensing

Jazwares has announced Sam Ferguson has been promoted to senior vice president, global licensing, effective immediately. In his newly expanded role, Ferguson will oversee the company’s global inbound and outbound licensing efforts reporting to Judd Karofsky, executive vice president, Jazwares. 

Since joining Jazwares in 2016, Ferguson has been instrumental in growing the company’s vast licensed portfolio and homegrown IPs consisting of entertainment and lifestyle brands. Most recently, Ferguson spearheaded the cross-category global licensing program for Squishmallows. Since debuting in 2021, the Squishmallows consumer products licensing program has expanded exponentially, attracting partnerships across apparel, footwear, bedding, stationery, publishing and more. 

“Sam is an absolute rock star who has the passion, commitment and drive that makes him a true standout within the licensing industry,” says Judd Karofsky, executive vice president, Jazwares. “It’s been a privilege and honor to see Sam’s accomplishments over the past six years, cultivating Jazwares’ licensing efforts around the globe with his unparalleled prowess in executing impactful brand collaborations kids and consumers want.” 

As part of his promotion, Ferguson will continue his role in identifying up-and-coming licensed properties, managing outbound licensing, brand building and leveraging key trade events around the world including Licensing Expo and Brand Licensing Europe among others for Jazwares. 

Related:10 Minutes With … Jazwares

“Being part of the Jazwares success story is something I'm truly proud of and all our amazing talent that authentically brings our licensing efforts to life across the portfolio,” says Ferguson. “As we further extend our footprint, we will continue to be a world-leading licensee as well as an industry disruptor with our owned IP expanding beyond the toy aisle.” 

Ferguson was included in License Global’s 40 Under 40 Influential list and is a recognized expert within the licensing industry, participating on several academic panels as well as serving on the board of Licensing International. 

Jazwares is exhibiting at Brand Licensing Europe. Register for the event here.