Cynthia Williams, a veteran of the video game industry who previously worked at Wizards of the Coast, was recently named CEO of Funko, a pop culture collectibles company based in Everett, Washington. Throughout her career, Williams has held leadership roles with companies such as Microsoft and Amazon, and her experience with fans of popular games like Dungeons & Dragons and Magic: The Gathering will be beneficial in developing products for Funko’s passionate fan base. She will be replacing Michael Lunsford, who has been serving as interim CEO since July, and will also join the company’s board.
Funko’s stock saw a 10% increase in after-hours trading following Williams’ appointment as CEO. However, over the past year, the company has experienced a decline in shares, with a nearly 40% decrease. Funko laid off 12% of its workforce in August and its president resigned in March. Despite these challenges, Williams’ leadership and experience are expected to bring positive changes to the company. In the first quarter of the year, Funko reported a decrease in revenue compared to the year-ago period, as well as a decrease in net loss.
In other personnel changes across the Pacific Northwest tech industry, Bellevue-based Nintex promoted two executives: Christian Lucarelli as vice president and head of the company’s global partner program, and Tony Thomas as vice president and head of global customer experience. Nintex, which was acquired by private equity giant TPG Capital in 2021, also welcomed Amit Mathradas as CEO last year. Meanwhile, Seattle-based cannabis company Leafly hired Peter Lee as its new president and chief operating officer, and Seattle real estate startup Far Homes brought in Elaine Han as head of business operations.
Ric Merrifield, a well-known tech and business leader in Seattle, recently joined the hydrogen energy company Hypowered Hydrogen as CEO and a new board member. Seattle autonomous driving technology startup Overland AI also made a key hire, bringing on Chris Merz as director of program management. These changes highlight the ongoing movement and growth within the Pacific Northwest tech industry, with new leadership bringing fresh perspectives and ideas to their respective companies. Despite challenges such as declining stock prices and revenue, these companies are optimistic about the future and are looking towards innovative solutions and strategies to drive growth and success.
