Mattel

Ynon Kreiz, the chief executive who revived Mattel with the hit Barbie movie, is set to take on a role at the combined Warner Bros.-Paramount, according to a Semafor exclusive. The move signals the new media giant is recruiting seasoned executives with franchise and brand expertise, and it is drawing attention across the entertainment and business press.

Mattel has appointed a new chief executive officer, according to a report by Retail Dive. The toy company behind Barbie and Hot Wheels has not disclosed further details in the available coverage, and it is not yet clear who is taking over, when the change takes effect, or what prompted the leadership transition.

Mattel has appointed Roger Lynch as its new chief executive, succeeding Ynon Kreiz, who is leaving the toy company behind the Barbie movie and Hot Wheels brand. The announcement puts Lynch, previously known as a digital media executive, in charge as Mattel pushes to grow its entertainment and licensing business. Coverage so far focuses on the leadership change itself, with little detail yet on Lynch's strategy or Kreiz's next move.

Paramount has won court approval to proceed with its deal involving Warner Bros and has named Mattel chief Ynon Kreiz as co-CEO. The dual announcements tie a major legal clearance in the media merger fight to a leadership shake-up, with Kreiz leaving the toymaker to take a top role alongside Paramount's existing leadership as the company integrates its newly approved acquisition.