Frascotti named top toy exec at Hasbro

Global branded play leader Hasbro, Inc. today announced the promotion of John Frascotti to the newly-created position of president, Hasbro Brands, effective immediately.

In this new role, Frascotti assumes the additional responsibilities of worldwide product development and now oversees all of the company’s global marketing and design and development teams. By combining the teams, the company will continue to drive strong innovation, maximize operational efficiency, facilitate greater collaboration and streamline decision-making.

“Across our organization, we are building a tremendous team that can inspire new ideas through our brands and execute them through our brand blueprint, in brand building and storytelling globally,” said Brian D. Goldner, president and CEO. “No one is better suited than John for this new leadership opportunity. His vision and consumer-centric approach will serve Hasbro and all of its stakeholders well as we continue to work side-by-side to deliver compelling brand expressions across generations and geographies.”

“I am incredibly honored to be leading this dynamic group of professionals,” said John Frascotti, president, Hasbro Brands. “This unified approach will enable us to continue to drive the momentum in our business and develop our brands holistically across platforms to meet the evolving needs of our global consumers.”

Frascotti joined Hasbro in 2008 as chief marketing officer. During his tenure, he led the re-imagination, re-invention and re-ignition of Hasbro's world-class brand portfolio and has been a key architect of the company’s branded play strategy.

Duncan Billing will now assume the role of executive vp, global operations and business development. In this new role, he will leverage his 25 year marketing, development and worldwide operations experience to identify new revenue streams, including new platforms and brands that leverage the company’s strengths and continue to lead Hasbro’s global manufacturing, sourcing and supply chain activities.

“As Hasbro continues to innovate in new areas of play and entertainment, I look forward to driving new strategic business opportunities and revenue streams for the company, while continuing to evolve our very capable operations function,” said Duncan Billing, EVP, global operations and business development.

Billing joined Hasbro in 1988 as group director, sales and marketing, for its U.K. subsidiary. He later transferred to the U.S., where he held