Leadership Overview
Sesame Workshop has 9 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, technology, and human resources.
Driven by a mission to make a meaningful difference in children's lives, Sesame Workshop leverages media and education to foster curiosity, learning, and kindness across the globe.
Driven by a mission to make a meaningful difference in children's lives, Sesame Workshop leverages media and education to foster curiosity, learning, and kindness across the globe.
Leadership Roles at Sesame Workshop
Sherrie Westin - President & Chief Executive Officer
Sherrie Westin, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Sesame Workshop, directs the organization's global strategy and operational execution. Overseeing all facets of the nonprofit media entity, Westin ensures the continued production and distribution of educational content that impacts children worldwide. This leadership role involves driving innovation in media platforms and educational outreach, aligning with Sesame Workshop's core mission established in 1968. By fostering key partnerships and expanding the reach of Sesame Street and other initiatives, Sherrie Westin solidifies the organization's position as a leader in early childhood education and development. The focus remains on creating engaging, effective learning experiences that promote social-emotional growth and cognitive development for young audiences across diverse cultural landscapes. Westin's strategic vision guides the organization's efforts to address critical developmental needs through accessible, high-quality programming.
Brett Robinson - Chief Financial Officer & Executive VP, Finance, Technology & Facilities
Brett Robinson, the Chief Financial Officer & Executive VP, Finance, Technology & Facilities at Sesame Workshop, directs the organization's financial strategy and oversees critical operational infrastructure. Robinson manages all aspects of financial planning, budgeting, and reporting, ensuring fiscal responsibility and sustainability for the nonprofit entity. This leadership position also encompasses oversight of technology investments and facility management, ensuring that these essential functions support the organization's mission of creating impactful educational content. By driving financial discipline and strategic resource allocation, Brett Robinson enables Sesame Workshop to expand its reach and deepen its impact on children's lives worldwide. The integration of finance, technology, and facilities management under one executive ensures cohesive strategic execution and operational efficiency across these vital areas.
Margaret Metzger - Administrative Manager & Chief Financial Officer, Office & Office of General Counsel & Secretary
Margaret Metzger, the Administrative Manager & Chief Financial Officer, Office & Office of General Counsel & Secretary at Sesame Workshop, provides critical administrative and financial oversight. Metzger manages key administrative functions and ensures the financial integrity of specific operational offices, including those supporting the General Counsel and the Corporate Secretary. This dual role demands meticulous attention to detail in both financial management and administrative coordination, supporting the smooth operation of essential legal and governance functions. By ensuring efficient resource allocation and robust administrative processes, Margaret Metzger contributes to the overall stability and effectiveness of Sesame Workshop's operations. The position requires a deep understanding of both financial controls and the administrative needs of legal and secretarial departments, ensuring compliance and operational excellence.
Tyler Lewis - Pinky Promise Films Chief Financial Officer & Chief Operating Officer
Tyler Lewis, the Pinky Promise Films Chief Financial Officer & Chief Operating Officer at Sesame Workshop, directs financial strategy and operational execution for the film production arm. Lewis manages the financial health and operational efficiency of Pinky Promise Films, ensuring that production budgets are met and resources are optimized for creative output. This role is vital for supporting the development and delivery of high-quality film content that aligns with Sesame Workshop's educational mission. By overseeing both financial planning and day-to-day operations, Tyler Lewis ensures that Pinky Promise Films can effectively produce engaging and impactful cinematic experiences. The focus is on driving fiscal responsibility and operational excellence within the film production context, contributing to the broader organizational objectives.
Joseph Giraldi - Chief Operating Officer
Joseph Giraldi, the Chief Operating Officer at Sesame Workshop, manages the day-to-day operational activities that support the organization's mission. Giraldi oversees the efficient functioning of various departments, ensuring that resources are effectively allocated to maximize the impact of Sesame Workshop's educational programming. This involves streamlining processes, enhancing operational workflows, and maintaining the infrastructure necessary for content creation and global distribution. By focusing on operational excellence, Joseph Giraldi contributes directly to the organization's ability to reach millions of children with vital learning experiences. The role demands a keen understanding of the media landscape and nonprofit management, enabling Giraldi to drive efficiency and support strategic initiatives. Ensuring seamless execution of projects and programs is paramount to upholding Sesame Workshop's commitment to early childhood development.
Sherrie Westin - President
Sherrie Westin, the President at Sesame Workshop, drives the strategic direction and overall mission of the organization. Westin oversees the execution of programs designed to foster early childhood development and learning through innovative media and educational outreach. This leadership position involves guiding the organization's efforts to create impactful content that reaches children and families across diverse global communities. By championing new initiatives and strengthening existing partnerships, Sherrie Westin ensures Sesame Workshop continues to be a leader in its field. The focus remains on leveraging media to promote curiosity, kindness, and lifelong learning, thereby making a significant positive difference in the lives of children. Westin's leadership ensures the enduring relevance and impact of Sesame Workshop's work.
Erin Manning - Chief of Staff
Erin Manning, the Chief of Staff at Sesame Workshop, provides strategic support and operational coordination across the executive leadership team. Manning facilitates the execution of key initiatives, manages critical projects, and ensures alignment between departmental objectives and the overarching goals of the organization. This role involves acting as a central point of communication and problem-solving, enabling the smooth functioning of executive decision-making processes. By streamlining workflows and enhancing organizational efficiency, Erin Manning directly supports the mission of Sesame Workshop to educate and inspire children globally. The position requires a comprehensive understanding of the organization's operations and strategic priorities, allowing Manning to effectively drive progress and manage complex assignments. Ensuring effective collaboration among leadership is a core function of this vital role.
Shadrach Kisten - Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer
Shadrach Kisten, the Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at Sesame Workshop, architects the organization's technology strategy and infrastructure. Kisten leads the development and implementation of innovative technological solutions that enhance content creation, distribution, and audience engagement across digital platforms. This role is crucial for ensuring Sesame Workshop remains at the forefront of media innovation, leveraging technology to deliver educational experiences to children globally. By driving advancements in digital capabilities, Shadrach Kisten supports the expansion of Sesame Street and other initiatives into new markets and formats. The focus is on building scalable, secure, and effective technology systems that empower the organization's mission. Kisten's leadership ensures that technology serves as a powerful engine for educational impact and organizational growth.
Dannette Hill - Chief People Officer
Dannette Hill, the Chief People Officer at Sesame Workshop, leads the human resources strategy and talent management initiatives for the organization. Hill is responsible for fostering a positive and productive work environment, attracting and retaining top talent, and developing programs that support employee growth and well-being. This role is critical for ensuring that Sesame Workshop has the skilled and dedicated workforce necessary to achieve its mission of educating children worldwide. By focusing on people-centric strategies, Dannette Hill cultivates a culture of collaboration and innovation, empowering employees to contribute their best work. The objective is to build a robust and engaged team that drives the organization's success in creating impactful educational content and experiences for children globally.
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Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Sesame Workshop Top Executives and Leadership Team
