Toys 'R' Us names former Domino’s Pizza exec as new CEO
Wayne, N.J. -- Toys "R" Us on Tuesday named David A. Brandon, 63, the former chief executive of Domino’s Pizza, as its new chairman and CEO, effective July 1, 2015. He will succeed company veteran Antonio Urcelay, who was named CEO in November 2013, who is retiring from the retailer.
As chairman and CEO of Domino’s Pizza for 11 years, Brandon led the company to profit growth and oversaw the successful completion of the largest initial public offering in restaurant history, which subsequently doubled Domino’s enterprise value to $2.5 billion. Brandon has remained chairman of the board of Domino’s as the company has further grown its value to over $7 billion.
Brandon's appointment at Toys “R” Us comes amid speculation that the chain's private equity owners are positioning the retailer for an IPO at some point in the future.
“Dave Brandon has an exceptional track record of driving growth, operational performance and profitability in global businesses, while elevating brands and seizing opportunities in highly competitive markets. He is a charismatic and passionate leader with a deep commitment to developing talent and driving a team culture focused on achieving measurable results. We are excited to bring Dave’s leadership, skills and vision to Toys “R” Us at this important juncture, and grateful to Antonio for his service and many contributions to the company during a time of significant change and reinvention,” the Toys “R” Us board of directors said in a joint statement.
Brandon left Dominos in 2010 to become Director of Intercollegiate Athletics for his alma mater, the University of Michigan. He left that position in October 2014.
Brandon also served as president and CEO of Valassis Communications for nine years, a period during which he made significant improvements in its operational performance and led the company’s transition from a private family-owned business to a publicly traded industry leader of media and marketing services.
Regarding his new role, Brandon stated: “I consider it a tremendous privilege to assume this important leadership role at Toys “R” Us, one of the most well-known retail brands in the world. And, I feel fortunate to be succeeding such an experienced and accomplished leader as Antonio. I believe our best days are ahead of us and I’m eager to get started. Meeting our employees and vendors is something I very much look forward to, as we begin to work together to drive future growth and create memorable shopping experiences for our customers.”