Sesame Workshop Executive and Leadership Team

June, 2026

Leadership Overview

Sesame Workshop has 9 executives leading key functions including strategy, operations, finance, technology, and human resources.

Driven by a mission to educate and inspire children globally, Sesame Workshop leverages its media expertise to foster social, emotional, and cognitive development, impacting millions of young lives through innovative programming and educational initiatives.

Leadership Roles at Sesame Workshop

  • Senior Executive Administrator To the Chief Executive Officer - Chanaid Bailey
  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Sherrie Westin
  • Administrative Manager & Chief Financial Officer, Office & Office of General Counsel & Secretary - Margaret Metzger
  • Chief Financial Officer & Executive VP, Finance, Technology & Facilities - Brett Robinson
  • Chief Operating Officer - Joseph Giraldi
  • President - Sherrie Westin
  • Chief of Staff - Erin Manning
  • Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer - Shadrach Kisten
  • Chief People Officer - Danni Hill
  • Chanaid Bailey - Senior Executive Administrator To the Chief Executive Officer

    Chanaid Bailey, the Senior Executive Administrator To the Chief Executive Officer at Sesame Workshop, provides critical support to the Chief Executive Officer. This role involves managing complex schedules, coordinating executive communications, and facilitating the smooth operation of the CEO's office. Bailey ensures that executive priorities are addressed efficiently, acting as a key liaison for internal and external stakeholders. The position demands exceptional organizational skills and a deep understanding of the organization's strategic objectives. Bailey's contributions are vital for maintaining executive productivity and advancing the company's mission. This administrative leadership ensures that the Chief Executive Officer can focus on high-level strategic decisions and external engagements, thereby driving the organization's overall success and impact in children's media and education.

    Sherrie Westin - President & Chief Executive Officer

    Sherrie Westin, the President & Chief Executive Officer at Sesame Workshop, directs the organization's overarching strategy and global operations. Westin spearheads initiatives that advance Sesame Workshop's mission to help children everywhere grow smarter, stronger, and kinder. This leadership role involves guiding content development, fostering strategic partnerships, and ensuring financial sustainability for the nonprofit media organization. Westin's vision shapes the direction of iconic programming and educational outreach efforts across diverse markets. Overseeing all executive functions, Sherrie Westin drives innovation in educational media, adapting to evolving technological landscapes and audience needs. The Chief Executive Officer's strategic direction ensures Sesame Workshop remains at the forefront of early childhood education, maximizing its positive impact worldwide.

    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, manages critical administrative and financial functions. Metzger oversees the financial health of the organization, ensuring fiscal responsibility and strategic resource allocation. This dual role also involves supporting the General Counsel and Secretary, facilitating legal operations and corporate governance. The Administrative Manager aspect ensures the smooth functioning of key office operations, supporting executive and legal teams. Margaret Metzger's comprehensive oversight contributes to the stability and compliance of Sesame Workshop's business activities. This leadership ensures that financial resources are effectively deployed to support the organization's educational mission and operational needs.

    Brett Robinson - Chief Financial Officer & Executive VP, Finance, Technology & Facilities

    Brett Robinson, the Chief Financial Officer & Executive VP, Finance, Technology & Facilities at Sesame Workshop, leads the financial strategy and operational oversight of key infrastructure. Robinson manages the organization's financial planning, budgeting, and reporting, ensuring fiscal integrity and sustainable growth. This executive leadership extends to overseeing technology investments and facilities management, aligning these critical areas with the company's strategic objectives. The Chief Financial Officer plays a vital role in resource allocation, driving efficiency across finance, technology, and facilities operations. Brett Robinson's financial acumen and operational management ensure that Sesame Workshop has the resources and infrastructure to effectively deliver its educational mission. This comprehensive oversight supports the organization's long-term viability and global impact.

    Joseph Giraldi - Chief Operating Officer

    Joseph Giraldi, the Chief Operating Officer at Sesame Workshop, oversees the day-to-day operational functions critical to the organization's success. Giraldi manages the efficient execution of business strategies, ensuring that all departments operate cohesively to support the company's mission. This executive leadership encompasses optimizing internal processes, managing resources effectively, and driving operational excellence across all divisions. The Chief Operating Officer plays a pivotal role in translating strategic goals into actionable plans, thereby enhancing productivity and streamlining workflows. Joseph Giraldi's focus on operational efficiency directly contributes to the organization's ability to produce impactful educational content and expand its global reach. This role is essential for maintaining the robust infrastructure that supports Sesame Workshop's extensive media and educational programs.
    Joseph Giraldi

    Sherrie Westin - President

    Sherrie Westin, the President at Sesame Workshop, drives the strategic vision and operational execution for the organization's global initiatives. Westin leads efforts to expand the reach and impact of Sesame Street and other educational programming, focusing on early childhood development worldwide. This leadership role involves cultivating key partnerships, overseeing content strategy, and ensuring the organization's financial health and sustainability. The President's direction guides innovation in educational media, adapting to diverse cultural contexts and technological advancements. Sherrie Westin's commitment to the mission ensures that Sesame Workshop continues to provide essential learning experiences for children. This executive leadership is fundamental to the organization's ongoing success and its profound influence on early education.
    Sherrie Westin

    Erin Manning - Chief of Staff

    Erin Manning, the Chief of Staff at Sesame Workshop, serves as a key strategic advisor and operational facilitator for the executive leadership team. Manning manages critical projects, drives cross-functional initiatives, and ensures alignment between departmental objectives and the organization's core mission. This role involves enhancing executive effectiveness by streamlining communication channels and prioritizing key strategic efforts. The Chief of Staff acts as a central point of coordination, supporting the President & Chief Executive Officer in executing complex agendas. Erin Manning's responsibilities include driving operational improvements and ensuring that strategic priorities are implemented efficiently across the organization. This position is integral to maintaining organizational momentum and achieving ambitious goals in educational media.

    Shadrach Kisten - Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer

    Shadrach Kisten, the Senior Vice President and Chief Technology Officer at Sesame Workshop, directs the organization's technology strategy and infrastructure. Kisten oversees the development and implementation of innovative technological solutions that support content creation, distribution, and audience engagement. This leadership role is crucial for leveraging digital platforms and emerging technologies to enhance educational outreach. The Chief Technology Officer ensures that Sesame Workshop's technological capabilities remain cutting-edge, enabling the organization to reach children globally through diverse media channels. Shadrach Kisten's expertise drives the digital transformation necessary for sustained growth and impact in the evolving media landscape. This position is fundamental to delivering Sesame Workshop's mission in the digital age.
    Shadrach Kisten

    Danni Hill - Chief People Officer

    Danni Hill, the Chief People Officer at Sesame Workshop, leads the human resources strategy and talent management initiatives. Hill is responsible for fostering a positive and productive work environment, attracting and retaining top talent, and developing comprehensive employee programs. This executive role focuses on cultivating a culture that supports the organization's mission and values, ensuring that the workforce is equipped to drive innovation in educational media. The Chief People Officer oversees all aspects of human capital, including recruitment, compensation, benefits, and professional development. Danni Hill's leadership in people operations is essential for building a strong, engaged team dedicated to Sesame Workshop's global impact. This strategic focus on human resources underpins the organization's ability to achieve its ambitious goals.

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Sesame Workshop Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Sesame Workshop?
    Sesame Workshop is led by Chanaid Bailey (Senior Executive Administrator To the Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Sherrie Westin (President & Chief Executive Officer) and Margaret Metzger (Administrative Manager & Chief Financial Officer, Office & Office of General Counsel & Secretary).
    Who is part of Sesame Workshop’s executive team?
    The executive team of Sesame Workshop includes leaders such as Chanaid Bailey (Senior Executive Administrator To the Chief Executive Officer), Sherrie Westin (President & Chief Executive Officer), Margaret Metzger (Administrative Manager & Chief Financial Officer, Office & Office of General Counsel & Secretary) and other senior executives.
    How many executives does Sesame Workshop have?
    Sesame Workshop has 9 executives leading key business areas.
    What roles are included in Sesame Workshop’s leadership team?
    The leadership team of Sesame Workshop includes roles such as Senior Executive Administrator To the Chief Executive Officer, President & Chief Executive Officer, Administrative Manager & Chief Financial Officer, Office & Office of General Counsel & Secretary, Chief Financial Officer & Executive VP, Finance, Technology & Facilities, Chief Operating Officer.