Former Hasbro, Ocean Spray, TJ Maxx and NPD Group executive Donna Tobin has launched a new marketing and consulting studio to aid the development of new products.
Called SKY-D8, the outfit will focus on eight core competencies including marketing consulting, branding, strategic planning, ideation workshops, product development, franchise planning, new IP development and commercialisation.
Through her 25 year career, Tobin has been responsible for a range of initiatives including strategic development for Kantar Retail’s global product portfolio, overseeing the relaunch and commercialisation of the My Little Pony global entertainment franchise at Hasbro and serving as the EVP, product development and marketing for The NPD Group.
In 2014, Tobin was awarded the Wonder Women in Toy Industry award in the Licensing and Entertainment category for her franchise leadership and revenue growth related to the My Little Pony relaunch.
Tobin is currently in the process of discussing a new gender-neutral IP targeting multiple consumer groups with licensing partners, publishers and entertainment studios.
“I am extremely excited to be representing this new IP, which has a strong socially and culturally relevant brand message,” said Tobin.
“It is resonating with so many already, and my hope is that its message will help make even a slight difference in people’s lives once it launches.”