Lynch will take over as chairman on 2 October and become CEO by 2 November, succeeding Kreiz after eight years at the helm of the toy and entertainment company
Mattel has appointed board member Roger Lynch as its next chairman and chief executive officer, replacing Ynon Kreiz in a leadership transition that comes as the toy maker has expanded further into entertainment, digital gaming and intellectual property.
Lynch, who has served on Mattel’s board since 2018 and is currently its Independent Lead Director, will become chairman on October 2 and take over as CEO on or before November 2. Kreiz will step down from both positions on October 2 to take a senior leadership role at another public company. Diana Ferguson, a current Mattel director, will become Independent Lead Director.
Lynch is currently CEO of Condé Nast, a position he has held since 2019. Before that, he was president and CEO of Pandora and founding CEO of Sling TV. He has also held CEO roles at Video Networks International and Chello Broadband, giving him experience across media, technology and consumer businesses.
The change comes after Mattel under Kreiz increasingly moved beyond its traditional toy business. The company expanded its brands across film, television, consumer products, digital games, live experiences and publishing, while also strengthening its licensing relationships with major entertainment companies.
Kreiz’s tenure also included the launch of Barbie, Mattel Studios’ first theatrical release, which became the highest-grossing film globally in 2023, according to the company. Mattel has since continued to expand its film slate and taken full ownership of mobile gaming business Mattel163.
Lynch said the company was entering its next phase after strengthening its brands, entertainment partnerships and balance sheet under Kreiz.
“I am honored by the Board’s confidence in me and couldn’t be more excited to lead the incredible team at Mattel. Throughout my years on the Board, I have admired Mattel’s brands, its talented people, and unique culture. I am especially grateful to Ynon for his many years of outstanding leadership and service to the company. During his tenure, Mattel has leveraged the power of its world-class brands, attracted exceptional entertainment partners, and strengthened its balance sheet. The company is well positioned for its next phase of profitable growth and its exciting new chapter,” Lynch said.
Kreiz said he was leaving Mattel with the company in a strong position.
“It has been a privilege to lead Mattel, with a global team dedicated to its mission and purpose, and I am proud of all we have achieved together. Mattel is in a position of strength, with a world-class brand portfolio, product offering, and global capabilities. I am grateful to the Board, management team, and entire Mattel organization for their commitment and collaboration during the past eight years, and I have every confidence the company will continue to thrive under Roger’s leadership,” Kreiz said.
The board said Lynch’s appointment followed a comprehensive succession planning process led by board member Judy Olian. Ferguson, who will become Independent Lead Director, has served on Mattel’s board since 2020 and currently chairs its Audit Committee.
Mattel owns brands including Barbie, Hot Wheels, Fisher-Price, American Girl, Thomas & Friends, UNO and Matchbox, with businesses spanning toys, content, consumer products, digital offerings and live experiences.
