Genius Brands International has named former Kabillion executive and respected distribution, production, licensing and merchandising expert Debra Pierson as General Manager of its Kid Genius entertainment channel on Xfinity On Demand — delivering “Smart TV for Kids.” Pierson brings over 25 years of kids entertainment experience to her new position to spearhead the continued growth of Kid Genius. She will report to GBI’s SVP of Global Distribution Sales Andy Berman, who also heads Kid Genius.
“I consider Deb Pierson joining us as a tipping point in major value creation at Genius Brands,” commented Andy Heyward, Chairman and CEO, Genius Brands International. “Her experience and capability, in my opinion, is no less important for the Kid Genius channel as was Geraldine Laybourne to the creation of Nickelodeon, or Betty Cohen to Cartoon Network, or Margaret Loesch (our board member) to the creation of Fox Kids. As we enter into the next generation of kids content distribution systems, I believe Kid Genius is now positioned to become just as impactful and valuable.”
As VP of sales and marketing for Kabillion for several years, Pierson helped launch the Kabillion Kids VOD channel on Comcast, Time Warner and Charter. Responsible for content acquisition, traffic, viewership and monetization of the broadband and cable Kabillion content offerings, Pierson collaborated with MSO distribution partners and also attracted top advertising partners such as General Mills, Lego, Activision and Hasbro to the platform. Pierson also oversaw the creation and launch of the Kabillion GIRLS RULE Channel, launching with over one million unique viewers and creating a new home for Bratz branded content.
Prior to Kabillion, Pierson was VP of specialty merchandise for Neopets, creating an independent retailer L&M strategy and leading the product development, manufacturing, licensing and sales for Neopets’ specialty merchandise division. Pierson has also been key to creating successful marketing campaigns with companies like McDonald’s, Toys ‘R’ Us and Justice Retail. Most recently, Pierson was CEO of Cosmic Toast Studios, working with a talent pool of artists, director and producers to create live-action and animated content for toy companies, networks and brands.
