ToyMonster International has recruited sales veteran Michael Ciminera to expand its North American operations as its first president in the region. 

In this newly created leadership role, Ciminera is tasked with spearheading the development and execution of new sales, business development and retail marketing strategies for the Australian company’s toy, licensing and homewares divisions. He joined last week and reports to ToyMonster founder and director Nir Pizmony. 

Ciminera is coming off a nine-year stint at Bandai Namco’s toys & collectibles division in the US, where he most recently served as SVP of commercial team sales and operations. During his tenure, he managed teams driving North American sales, exports, customer service, marketing and business analytics. He has also held executive sales postions at game developer Activision Blizzard (2003 to 2014) and greeting card retailer Hallmark Cards (1995 to 2003). 

ToyMonster launched in 2018 and currently has agreements in place with Spin Master to manufacture and distribute its ugly Fuggler dolls, and with Universal Products & Experiences to create Jurassic World surprise eggs and vehicles. Its portfolio of original toy brands includes Sew Easy sewing machines, Plush’n squishy dolls and Water Art magic markers.