Build-A-Bear Workshop Executive and Leadership Team

May, 2026

Leadership Overview

Build-A-Bear Workshop has 7 executives leading key functions including strategy, finance, technology, people operations, legal, and commercial operations.

Driven by a commitment to joy and creativity, Build-A-Bear Workshop focuses on delivering unique, personalized experiences through its multi-channel retail operations, fostering imagination and connection for families worldwide.

Leadership Roles at Build-A-Bear Workshop

  • Chief Executive Officer - Chris Hurt
  • Chief Executive Officer & Director - Gavin Port
  • Chief Financial Officer - Voin Todorovic
  • President - Jackson Hicks
  • Senior Vice President, Chief Technology Officer - Dara Meath
  • Senior Vice President, Chief People Officer - Roz Johnson
  • Chief Legal Officer & Secretary - Yevgeny Fundler
  • Chris Hurt - Chief Executive Officer

    Chris Hurt, the Chief Executive Officer at Build-A-Bear Workshop, directs the company's overall strategic vision and operational execution. Overseeing all business segments, including Direct-to-Consumer, Commercial, and International Franchising, Hurt ensures alignment with the company's mission to deliver memorable experiences. This leadership role involves driving growth across all markets, from the United States and Canada to the United Kingdom, Ireland, and other international territories. By focusing on innovation in plush products, stuffing experiences, and related accessories, Chris Hurt guides the company's expansion and market presence. The Chief Executive Officer's responsibilities extend to fostering key partnerships and ensuring the long-term financial health and market leadership of Build-A-Bear Workshop.

    Gavin Port - Chief Executive Officer & Director

    Gavin Port, the Chief Executive Officer & Director at Build-A-Bear Workshop, spearheads the company's strategic direction and corporate governance. Port's oversight encompasses the entire multi-channel retail operation, ensuring cohesive execution across Direct-to-Consumer, Commercial, and International Franchising segments. This executive guides the expansion of the Build-A-Bear Workshop brand globally, focusing on enhancing the unique customer experience of creating personalized plush animals and accessories. Gavin Port's role involves driving innovation in product offerings, including stuffed animals, clothing, and novelty items, while also managing relationships with stakeholders and the Board of Directors. The Chief Executive Officer & Director's leadership ensures the company's continued success and market relevance in the toy and retail industry.
    Gavin Port

    Voin Todorovic - Chief Financial Officer

    Voin Todorovic, the Chief Financial Officer at Build-A-Bear Workshop, manages the company's financial health and strategic fiscal planning. Todorovic oversees all financial operations, including budgeting, forecasting, and capital allocation across the Direct-to-Consumer, Commercial, and International Franchising segments. This leadership position involves ensuring robust financial controls and driving profitability through efficient resource management. Voin Todorovic's responsibilities extend to investor relations, financial reporting, and supporting strategic growth initiatives that align with the company's multi-channel retail model. By analyzing market trends and financial performance, the Chief Financial Officer guides investment decisions and optimizes the company's financial structure to support global expansion and product development in plush animals and related merchandise.
    Voin Todorovic

    Jackson Hicks - President

    Jackson Hicks, the President at Build-A-Bear Workshop, drives the operational execution and strategic initiatives across the company's diverse business segments. Hicks' leadership focuses on optimizing the Direct-to-Consumer, Commercial, and International Franchising operations to ensure a consistent and engaging brand experience globally. This role involves overseeing day-to-day business activities, fostering cross-functional collaboration, and implementing strategies that enhance product offerings, including plush animals, clothing, and accessories. Jackson Hicks plays a key part in expanding market reach and driving revenue growth through innovative retail solutions and operational excellence. The President's focus on efficiency and customer satisfaction underpins the company's mission to deliver joy and creativity to families worldwide.

    Dara Meath - Senior Vice President, Chief Technology Officer

    Dara Meath, the Senior Vice President, Chief Technology Officer at Build-A-Bear Workshop, architects and directs the company's technological infrastructure and digital strategy. Meath oversees the development and implementation of all IT systems supporting the multi-channel retail operations, including e-commerce platforms, in-store technology, and data analytics. This role is critical for enhancing the customer experience, from online product customization to seamless in-store interactions with plush animals and accessories. Dara Meath's responsibilities include driving innovation in technology to support business growth across all segments, ensuring data security, and optimizing operational efficiency. The Chief Technology Officer's leadership ensures Build-A-Bear Workshop remains at the forefront of retail technology, supporting its global presence and product offerings.
    Dara Meath

    Roz Johnson - Senior Vice President, Chief People Officer

    Roz Johnson, the Senior Vice President, Chief People Officer at Build-A-Bear Workshop, leads all human resources functions and talent management strategies. Johnson is responsible for cultivating a positive and engaging company culture that supports the unique retail environment focused on plush animals and personalized experiences. This executive oversees recruitment, employee development, compensation, and benefits across all operational segments, including Direct-to-Consumer, Commercial, and International Franchising. Roz Johnson's strategic focus ensures that the company attracts and retains top talent, fostering an environment where creativity and customer service thrive. The Chief People Officer's leadership is integral to supporting the company's global workforce and its mission to deliver joy and memorable moments to customers.
    Yevgeny Fundler, the Chief Legal Officer & Secretary at Build-A-Bear Workshop, provides comprehensive legal counsel and oversees corporate governance. Fundler manages all legal affairs, ensuring compliance with regulations across the company's international operations and multi-channel retail segments. This role involves advising on contracts, intellectual property, risk management, and corporate policies related to the sale of plush animals, accessories, and related merchandise. Yevgeny Fundler's responsibilities include supporting strategic initiatives, mergers, and acquisitions, as well as managing litigation and regulatory matters. The Chief Legal Officer & Secretary's expertise is crucial for safeguarding the company's interests and maintaining its reputation as it expands its global presence and product lines.
    Yevgeny Fundler

    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Build-A-Bear Workshop Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Build-A-Bear Workshop?
    Build-A-Bear Workshop is led by Chris Hurt (Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Gavin Port (Chief Executive Officer & Director) and Voin Todorovic (Chief Financial Officer).
    Who is part of Build-A-Bear Workshop’s executive team?
    The executive team of Build-A-Bear Workshop includes leaders such as Chris Hurt (Chief Executive Officer), Gavin Port (Chief Executive Officer & Director), Voin Todorovic (Chief Financial Officer) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Build-A-Bear Workshop have?
    Build-A-Bear Workshop has 7 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Build-A-Bear Workshop’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Build-A-Bear Workshop includes roles such as Chief Executive Officer, Chief Executive Officer & Director, Chief Financial Officer, President, Senior Vice President, Chief Technology Officer.