Sesame Workshop Executive and Leadership Team

May, 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, Sesame Workshop leverages media to foster social, emotional, and cognitive development globally, impacting millions of young lives through innovative programming and educational initiatives.

Leadership Roles at Sesame Workshop

  • President & Chief Executive Officer - Sherrie Westin
  • Senior Executive Administrator To the Chief Executive Officer - Chanaid Bailey
  • Administrative Manager & Chief Financial Officer, Office & Office of General Counsel & Secretary - Margaret Metzger
  • Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Finance, Technology & Facilities - Brett Robinson
  • Chief Operating Officer - Joseph Giraldi
  • President - Sherrie Westin
  • Chief of Staff - Erin Manning
  • Chief Technology Officer & Senior VP - Shadrach Kisten
  • Chief People Officer - Dannette Hill
  • 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 guides the development and execution of initiatives that advance Sesame Workshop's mission to help children everywhere grow smarter, stronger, and kinder. This leadership role involves overseeing all content creation, educational outreach, and strategic partnerships that extend the reach and impact of Sesame Street and other Workshop programs. By championing innovative approaches to early childhood education, Sherrie Westin ensures the organization remains at the forefront of media-based learning. The President & Chief Executive Officer's focus includes driving financial sustainability and expanding the organization's influence across diverse markets. Westin's strategic vision shapes the future direction of Sesame Workshop's educational endeavors.

    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 administrative support to the organization's highest leadership position. Bailey manages complex scheduling, coordinates executive communications, and facilitates the smooth operation of the Chief Executive Officer's office. This role ensures that executive priorities are effectively managed and that key stakeholders receive timely and accurate information. By streamlining administrative processes, Chanaid Bailey enables the Chief Executive Officer to focus on strategic decision-making and external relations. The Senior Executive Administrator To the Chief Executive Officer plays a vital part in maintaining organizational efficiency and supporting the executive team's productivity. Bailey's meticulous attention to detail underpins the effective functioning of executive-level operations.

    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 operations supporting the Office of the General Counsel and the Secretary's office, ensuring compliance and fiscal responsibility. This multifaceted role involves managing budgets, financial reporting, and administrative processes essential for these key legal and governance departments. By providing robust financial oversight and administrative management, Margaret Metzger ensures the efficient operation of critical corporate functions. The Administrative Manager & Chief Financial Officer, Office & Office of General Counsel & Secretary's expertise is vital for maintaining the integrity of legal and secretarial operations. Metzger's contributions support the overall governance and financial health of Sesame Workshop.

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

    Brett Robinson, the Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Finance, Technology & Facilities at Sesame Workshop, leads the organization's financial strategy and oversight. Robinson directs all aspects of financial planning, budgeting, accounting, and reporting, ensuring fiscal health and sustainability. This critical role involves managing financial resources across the organization, including those supporting technology and facilities operations. By providing strategic financial guidance, Brett Robinson supports the effective allocation of capital and drives operational efficiency. The Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Finance, Technology & Facilities' responsibilities extend to risk management and ensuring compliance with financial regulations. Robinson's financial acumen is essential for the long-term growth and mission fulfillment of Sesame Workshop.

    Joseph Giraldi - Chief Operating Officer

    Joseph Giraldi, the Chief Operating Officer at Sesame Workshop, directs the organization's day-to-day operational activities and ensures efficient resource allocation. Giraldi oversees critical functions including production, distribution, and facilities management, aligning them with the company's strategic objectives. This leadership position involves optimizing workflows and implementing best practices across all operational departments to enhance productivity and cost-effectiveness. By managing the intricate operational landscape, Joseph Giraldi supports the creation and delivery of Sesame Workshop's educational content. The Chief Operating Officer's responsibilities extend to ensuring the seamless execution of projects and maintaining the integrity of the organization's infrastructure. Giraldi's operational expertise is fundamental to the successful implementation of the Workshop's global initiatives.
    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 programs, focusing on early childhood development. This leadership position involves fostering key partnerships, overseeing content development, and ensuring the organization's financial sustainability. By guiding strategic priorities, Sherrie Westin ensures Sesame Workshop effectively addresses the evolving needs of children worldwide. The President's role encompasses advocating for children's education and driving innovation in media for social impact. Westin's leadership is instrumental in advancing the Workshop's mission across diverse cultural contexts.
    Sherrie Westin

    Erin Manning - Chief of Staff

    Erin Manning, the Chief of Staff at Sesame Workshop, acts as a key strategic advisor and operational liaison for executive leadership. Manning coordinates cross-departmental initiatives, manages special projects, and ensures alignment between strategic goals and operational execution. This role involves facilitating communication, driving key decisions, and enhancing the effectiveness of the executive team. By providing strategic support and operational oversight, Erin Manning enables the leadership to navigate complex challenges and capitalize on opportunities. The Chief of Staff's responsibilities include preparing executive briefings, managing agendas, and ensuring that critical organizational priorities receive focused attention. Manning's role is central to driving strategic alignment and operational efficiency across Sesame Workshop.

    Shadrach Kisten - Chief Technology Officer & Senior VP

    Shadrach Kisten, the Chief Technology Officer & Senior VP at Sesame Workshop, directs the organization's technology strategy and infrastructure development. Kisten oversees the implementation of innovative technological solutions that support content creation, digital distribution, and educational outreach initiatives. This leadership role involves managing the technology roadmap, ensuring cybersecurity, and leveraging digital platforms to enhance audience engagement and operational efficiency. By driving technological advancements, Shadrach Kisten ensures Sesame Workshop remains at the cutting edge of media and education. The Chief Technology Officer & Senior VP's focus includes optimizing IT systems and exploring emerging technologies to further the organization's mission. Kisten's technical leadership is crucial for expanding the Workshop's digital footprint and impact.
    Shadrach Kisten

    Dannette Hill - Chief People Officer

    Dannette Hill, the Chief People Officer at Sesame Workshop, leads the human resources strategy and talent management initiatives. Hill oversees all aspects of employee relations, organizational development, and workforce planning to foster a positive and productive work environment. This role is pivotal in attracting, retaining, and developing a diverse and skilled workforce aligned with the organization's mission. By championing people-centric policies and programs, Dannette Hill ensures Sesame Workshop cultivates a culture of collaboration and innovation. The Chief People Officer's responsibilities include implementing comprehensive benefits, compensation, and performance management systems. Hill's leadership in human capital management is fundamental to the success of Sesame Workshop's dedicated team.
    Dannette Hill

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    Frequently Asked Questions Regarding Sesame Workshop Top Executives and Leadership Team

    Who leads Sesame Workshop?
    Sesame Workshop is led by Sherrie Westin (President & Chief Executive Officer), along with executives such as Chanaid Bailey (Senior Executive Administrator To the 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 Sherrie Westin (President & Chief Executive Officer), Chanaid Bailey (Senior Executive Administrator To the 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 President & Chief Executive Officer, Senior Executive Administrator To the Chief Executive Officer, Administrative Manager & Chief Financial Officer, Office & Office of General Counsel & Secretary, Executive Vice President & Chief Financial Officer, Finance, Technology & Facilities, Chief Operating Officer.