The Topps Co., the maker of sports and related cards, entertainment products, and confectionery, appointed Doug Kruep as vice president and general manager, U.S. sports and entertainment, effective immediately.
In his new role, Kruep will be responsible for managing domestic sports and entertainment products including brand management, product development, editorial, operations, finance, sales and customer development. He will report directly to Topps Chief Executive Officer and President Ryan O'Hara.
Kruep comes to Topps from Jarden Corporation where he most recently served as vice president & general manager – Games, Arts & Crafts. Kruep managed a business comprised of The United States Playing Card Company and Loew-Cornell, LLC both of which are market leaders in their respective product categories. He brings significant experience in the areas of brand management, new product development, licensing, sales and customer development.
Most recently, Kruep was instrumental in leveraging new licensing partners and organic category expansion to transform Licensed Products segment into a highly profitable diversified portfolio.
“Doug brings a mix of core management and marketing skills, energy and innovation to Topps,” said O'Hara. “His background and experience is ideally suited for the job and we're excited about his joining Topps at the ideal juncture.”
Before joining Jarden in 2007, Kruep held several marketing positions with Sanford Brands, a Newell Rubbermaid company and spent several years with Tommy Armour Golf Company. Kruep has a BS in business administration from Saint Louis University and an MBA from Northwestern University's Kellogg School of Management.
