Spin Master Taps WBD & Disney Alum Maryellen Zarakas

Spin Master Entertainment has appointed Warner Bros. Discovery (WBD) and The Walt Disney Company alum Maryellen Zarakas as senior VP of global consumer products and franchise development.

Zarakas will oversee Spin Master’s approach to global consumer product licensing, franchise management, retail development and partnerships, as well as growing the portfolio of owned brands and franchises. She joins from WBD, where she most recently served as senior VP of franchise development.

During her tenure at WBD, Zarakas also led franchise management and worldwide marketing for Warner Bros. Consumer Products, focusing on activating revenue streams for the film and TV portfolio, including DC Comics, Harry Potter, Looney Tunes, Scooby-Doo and Lord of the Rings. She drove strategic franchise planning and execution of multiplatform programs through integrated marketing campaigns, maximizing consumer engagement, promoting brand loyalty and driving purchase.

Prior to working at WBD, Zarakas held various roles at The Walt Disney Company across consumer products category management and brand marketing for Disney Princess, Mickey Mouse, Winnie the Pooh, Toy Story and more.

At Spin Master, Zarakas will report to Jennifer Dodge, president.

“Maryellen is a dynamic, results-driven senior leader with deep expertise in global business development, franchise- and brand-building, marketing strategy and retail merchandising for iconic companies and brands,” Dodge said. “With a passion for leveraging the convergence of content, community and commerce, she has a proven track record of fostering growth. We are excited to have her join Spin Master to help deepen the connection between our renowned brands and kids and their families on the global stage.”

Zarakas commented, “During the course of my career, I’ve had many opportunities to work with the Spin Master team and have always been inspired by their commitment to creating properties and brands that engage audiences and inspire imagination. I can’t wait to reconnect with the talented team at Spin Master and to unlock further growth, continuing the company’s legacy as leaders in this industry.”