Spin Master Announces Retirement of President, Toys

Spin Master, a global children’s entertainment company has announced Chris Beardall, president, toys and chief commercial officer will retire as of Dec. 31. Doug Wadleigh, currently head, global toy brands, will succeed Chris as the new president, toys, beginning in January, reporting to Max Rangel, global president and chief executive officer. 

“During Chris’ illustrious 23-year career with Spin Master he has been a driving force behind the introduction of thousands of toys to the market while also deepening and diversifying our portfolio and expanding our global footprint,” says Max Rangel, global president, chief executive officer, Spin Master. “Chris leaves a legacy of amazing innovation that will forever be imprinted on the toy industry, and we wish him health and happiness in his next chapter. We’re grateful to have Chris’ support as we transition our toy creative center leadership to Doug, a seasoned toy industry executive. Doug has already made a meaningful impact at Spin Master, helping to strengthen our global toy brands and acquire new licensed partnerships. Under his leadership we will continue to unlock future growth within our toy business.” 

Beardall was first appointed as Spin Master’s vice president, product development in 2000 and has since held roles within the toy commercial business. For the past three years, he served as president, Spin Master Toys and chief commercial officer, where he led the Toy creative center with direct accountability for product development, design, packaging, licensing, product marketing and global sales. 

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“It’s been an absolute privilege and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to have worked at Spin Master alongside so many talented people, creating countless toys that have inspired memorable moments for kids around the world,” says Beardall. “When I look back to when I started, we were just a small toy company with a few hits under our belt. Today, Spin Master has grown into a global industry leader, known for evergreen toy properties coupled with breakthrough innovation. While my decision to retire has not been easy, I am highly confident in the team in place and their commitment to delivering awesome play experiences.” 

Wadleigh joined Spin Master in 2022 as global head, toy brands, responsible for profitable growth across all toy categories, leading product development and driving sales and operational alignment. 

A toy industry veteran, Wadleigh previously held leadership positions within prominent global companies, including Mattel and Warner Bros., as well as innovative disrupters, including Baby Box. Co. and Loot Crate. Prior to joining Spin Master, he served as president and global chief marketing officer, Goliath, a privately held toys and games company.