By Allison Watkinson
TLL Reporter
Funko’s board of directors has appointed Josh Simon to serve as the company’s new chief executive officer and member of the board.
Effective September 1, 2025, Simon will officially succeed Funko’s interim CEO, Mike Lunsford.
“I am honored to join the team at Funko, an iconic company with a huge fan base that I admire and respect,” said Simon. “Pop culture—and people’s desire to connect with the lifestyle brands they love – is stronger today than ever. There are so many ways we can build on Funko’s fandom and expand our business for the benefit of both customers and shareholders.”
Simon joins the company following more than five years at Netflix, where he served as vice president of consumer products.
During this time, he was responsible for overseeing the company’s global initiatives across licensed merchandise, live experiences, e-commerce, retail and more.
Simon expanded Netflix’s merchandise and consumer products division by creating a broad range of products and experiences for its portfolio of content.
This portfolio includes well-known properties such as Stranger Things, Bridgerton, Squid Game and more.
Prior to Netflix, Simon held various management roles at high-profile companies such as Nike, The Walt Disney Company’s Motion Picture Group and DreamWorks’ Color Force Productions.
In addition to his extensive experience working in the industry, Simon holds a B.A. in economics from Harvard University.
“Josh is an exceptional leader and his extensive experience in entertainment and consumer products is exactly what Funko needs in its next CEO,” said Funko chairman, Charles Denson. “Moreover, he brings expertise in operations, licensing and strategy, gained while serving in senior leadership roles at such esteemed companies as Netflix, Nike, and The Walt Disney Company,” added Denson. “We are delighted to have him as our CEO as we work to maximize the significant growth opportunities ahead.”
Founded in 1998, Funko is a global company that creates licensed pop-culture and lifestyle products through its Funko, Loungefly and Mondo brands.
Through these brands, the company delivers a wide selection of products such as vinyl figures, micro-collectibles, fashion accessories, apparel, action toys, high-end art, music collectibles and more.
Photo Credit: Josh Simon’s headshot from Funko Investor Relations/BusinessWire.
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