Jean McKenzie, Sr. VP of Learning, Walt Disney Co

Event Topic:

“Building Global Brands in the Youth Market”
Ms. McKenzie will draw upon her vast experience at Mattel, Gateway Learning, and Disney to discuss the process of engaging young people and running a business from a branding perspective. 
  
 
Bio:

Jean McKenzie joined The Walt Disney Company in March of 2007 as Senior Vice President, Learning.  Ms. McKenzie previously served as President and Chief Executive Officer of Gateway Learning Corporation from 1999 through 2005.  At Gateway Learning, Ms. McKenzie led a private equity-backed management team through a business turnaround of the Hooked on Phonics brand which culminated in the merger of the company with Sylvan Learning-Educate, Inc.
 
Prior to joining Gateway Learning Corporation, Ms. McKenzie spent nine years in various marketing and senior management roles at Mattel, Inc.  She served in the position of Executive Vice President and General Manager, Worldwide Barbie with responsibility for a division of over 400 employees.  Under her leadership from 1989 to 1998, worldwide sales grew at a 20% compound rate from $500M to over $2B.  Ms. McKenzie and her management team, pioneered leading-edge product design strategies and award-winning marketing campaigns that expanded the global brand franchise.
 
Prior to joining Mattel, Inc., Ms. McKenzie held product management positions with Applause, Inc. and traveled to the Far East to oversee the development and production of gift products.  She began her career with Hallmark Cards, Inc. in Kansas City, MO.