Topps Names Michael Brandstaedter New COO

The Topps Co. has announced the appointment of Michael Brandstaedter to Chief Operational Officer. Effective immediately, Brandstaedter will add COO responsibilities to assist with cross-company operational efforts and endeavors while maintaining his role running worldwide Bazooka Candy Brands, the confectionary division of Topps. He will continue to report directly to Topps CEO and President Ryan O’Hara.

Topps was acquired by Michael Eisner’s The Tornante Company and Madison Dearborn Partners in October 2007. In confirming the promotion of Brandstaedter, Eisner said “Mike’s accomplishments since arriving at Topps are undeniable, and we look forward to his continued success in this new role as we continue to execute our vision for growth at Topps.”

“Mike brings a special blend of marketing and management skills as well as a real focus on enhancing innovation to this role,” said O’Hara. “He has done a terrific job expanding our confectionary businesses and is the ideal person to help me and the rest of our teams as we continue to build and transform this one-of-a-kind company.”

Brandstaedter has held his current role as Vice President - General Manager Global Confectionery since August 2009. Prior to joining Topps, Brandstaedter was Senior Director of Marketing for Kraft Foods, during which time he held various roles and managed businesses such as Oreo Cookies, Newtons, 100 Calorie Packs and Planters Nuts. Prior to Kraft Foods, he was Brand Manager for Life Savers Candy at Nabisco. He holds a BS from Cornell University and an MBA from The University of Michigan Ross School of Business.