Toys 'R' Us names ceo for Japanese division

WAYNE, N.J. Toys “R” Us announced today that Monika Merz has been promoted to ceo for Toys “R” Us, Japan, effective Nov. 15. Merz currently serves as president of Toys “R” Us, Canada. In her new role, she will be responsible for all aspects of the company’s owned and franchised operations in Japan. She will report to Kei Kodera, representative director, chairman and president of Toys “R” Us, Japan, and will be based in Tokyo.

In discussing her new position, Merz said, “I am extremely excited about the opportunity to contribute to our global business, and I look forward to working with the leadership team in Japan to identify new business opportunities and bring best practices from across the company to strengthen our position in this important global marketplace.”

Merz joined Toys “R” Us in October 1996 as vp and general merchandise manager for Toys “R” Us, Canada.  In this capacity, she oversaw all aspects of merchandising and marketing for the company’s Canadian operations.  In 2000, she was promoted to president of Toys “R” Us, Canada, where she helped expand the Canadian business to 67 locations.