About Jazwares

Meet the visionary leaders driving our success. Our dynamic Executive Leadership Team is shaping the future and delivering on our mission.

David Neustein

Chief Executive Officer

David Neustein is Chief Executive Officer of Jazwares, a leading global toy manufacturer with a robust portfolio of owned and licensed brands. Appointed CEO in March 2026, David brings a deep operational perspective shaped by years of leadership across the organization. Prior to becoming CEO, David was Chief Operating Officer, overseeing Jazwares’ global operations and managing teams and entities across the Americas, Asia, and Europe. Before joining Jazwares, David served as Chief Operating Officer and General Counsel for Deco Lav, Inc., a home furnishings manufacturer. David earned a Bachelor of Science in Political Science from Emory University and a Juris Doctor Degree from Cardozo School of Law.

Jeremy Padawer

President

Jeremy Padawer is President of Jazwares, leading the company’s Global Sales, Planning, Sales Operations, Logistics, Procurement, Brand, Marketing, and Communications functions. Jeremy has extensive experience in brand building, collectibles, e-commerce, and animated content. Jeremy previously served as Chief Brand Officer for Jazwares, where he led global brand building, marketing, communications, creative services, direct-to-consumer e-commerce, and inventor relations. He joined the company in 2019 through the acquisition of Wicked Cool Toys, where he was Co-President and Partner. Earlier in his career, Jeremy held leadership roles in Brand Marketing at Jakks Pacific and Mattel. Jeremy holds a Bachelor of Arts in Business and Psychology from the University of Texas at Austin; a Juris Doctor Degree from the University of Tennessee, Knoxville; and an MBA from Vanderbilt University.

Judd Karofsky

Chief Business Development Officer

Judd Karofsky serves as Chief Business Development Officer for Jazwares, overseeing Global Licensing and Consumer Products. He plays a key role in expanding the company’s brand portfolio and external partnerships. Before his current role, Judd was Executive Vice President for Jazwares, leading Global Licensing. He joined the company in 2018 through the acquisition of Zag Toys, where he served as President.

Herb Mitschele

Chief Commercial Officer

Herb Mitschele is Chief Commercial Officer for Jazwares, responsible for Global Sales & Planning, Logistics, Global Procurement, and Supply Chain. He brings a unique blend of commercial leadership, operational expertise, and entrepreneurial experience. Herb previously served as Executive Vice President, Sales & Planning at Jazwares. He joined the company in 2019, following the acquisition of Wicked Cool Toys, where he was Executive Vice President of Global Sales & Operations. Earlier in his career, Herb was Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder of Shodogg, a New York-based software company, and held senior roles at CDI, a division of Jakks Pacific, Playmates Toys, and Mattel. Herb earned a degree in Business Administration, Marketing from Rowan University.

Gerhard Runken

Chief Brand Officer

Gerhard Runken is Chief Brand Officer for Jazwares, overseeing Global Brand & Marketing for the organization. He brings extensive experience in brand strategy, product development, and marketing within the toy industry. Previously, Gerhard served as Executive Vice President, Global Brand & Marketing for Jazwares. He joined the company in 2019 following the acquisition of Wicked Cool Toys, where he was Vice President of Marketing & Brand Strategy. Earlier in his career, Gerhard held senior brand marketing roles at Fuel Entertainment and Jakks Pacific. Gerhard holds a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Marketing and Consumer Business from California State University, Northridge.

Matt Siesel

Chief Financial & Operating Officer

Matt Siesel is Chief Financial & Operating Officer of Jazwares, overseeing Finance, Business Intelligence, Information Technology, Legal, Human Resources, Facilities, and Global Security. In this role, he drives financial strategy and operational excellence across the organization. Before assuming his current position, he served as Chief Financial Officer of Jazwares. His prior experience includes serving as Vice President of Finance for Watsco, Inc., as well as holding finance and accounting leadership roles with LVMH/Onboard Media, GE/NBC/Telemundo, and Arthur Andersen. Matt received a Bachelor of Science in Accounting from Binghamton University.