Mattel has promoted Roberto Stanichi. The former Senior Vice President, Hot Wheels and Global Head of Vehicles will now serve as Executive Vice President, Hot Wheels & Head of Vehicles and Building Sets.
Roberto has been a driving force behind the growth of Mattel’s Vehicles category and of course Hot Wheels, the No. 1 selling toy in the world, which is on track for its seventh consecutive record year in 2024. He has always embodied the ‘challenger spirit’ that defines the Hot Wheels brand purpose and leads with an enterprise mindset. We look forward to Roberto continuing to play an integral role in Mattel’s success as we execute our strategy to grow our IP-driven toy business and expand our entertainment offering.”
Stanichi is credited with “defining the strategic foundation that ignited the growth for the Hot Wheels franchise” and spearheading sustainability efforts.
The Hot Wheels brand is a beloved automotive franchise for children and adults. It includes a live experience, products, content, digital games, and a Netflix series, Hot Wheels Let’s Race, now in its second season. Hot Wheels had achieved $1.6 billion in gross billings for Mattel in addition to becoming the No. 1 toy in the world. Hot Wheels Let’s Race is on Netflix’s Top 10 TV Series in 27 countries.
Stanichi is also credited with transforming Disney Pixar Cas as an evergreen brand. He oversees the Thomas and Friends franchise and MEGA’s Building Sets category.
Stanichi has also played a crucial part in igniting Matchbox’s sustainability efforts and cementing Disney Pixar Cars as an evergreen brand. In his expanded role he now oversees the Thomas and Friends franchise and the Building Sets category, led by MEGA.
Stanichi joined Mattel in 2004. He previously held leadership roles at Spin Master and PepsiCo. For more information on Mattel’s toy and brand portfolio, visit mattel.com.