Key facts
- Roger Lynch appointed Mattel CEO, effective by Nov. 2, 2026.
- Ynon Kreiz steps down as CEO to take a senior leadership position elsewhere.
- Lynch has been a Mattel board member since 2018.
- Lynch previously served as CEO of Condé Nast, Pandora, and Sling.
- Diana Ferguson appointed Independent Lead Director.
Mattel, Inc. announced on Wednesday that Roger Lynch, a current board member and Independent Lead Director, will become the company's new Chief Executive Officer. The transition is set to occur on or before November 2, 2026, with Lynch succeeding Ynon Kreiz, who is departing to assume a senior leadership role at another public company. Lynch's appointment follows a comprehensive succession planning process led by board member Judy Olian.
Lynch, who has been on Mattel's board since 2018, brings a wealth of experience from leadership positions in media, technology, and consumer businesses. He previously served as CEO of Condé Nast since 2019, where he was credited with unifying global operations and driving profit growth. His career also includes CEO roles at Pandora, Sling, Video Networks International, and Chello Broadband, focusing on scaling global consumer businesses at the intersection of media and technology.
Kreiz, who led Mattel for eight years, is credited with transforming the company from a traditional toy manufacturer into a leading IP-driven play and family entertainment company. During his tenure, Mattel reportedly strengthened its global leadership in key toy categories like Dolls, Vehicles, and Infant, Toddler & Preschool, with Hot Wheels on track for its ninth consecutive growth year.
Diana Ferguson, another Mattel board member, has been appointed as the new Independent Lead Director.