People of Play (POP) has announced Shannon Swindle as its newest director.
As a division of the Toy Association, POP creates a community of toy industry professionals to promote creativity and connection. Known for organizing events such as POP Week, Chicago Toys and Games (ChiTAG) Week, and Bloom Report, POP has been a staple in the toy industry for over 20 years. With Shannon Swindle’s knowledge and experience, the group will further expand its reach to celebrate the innovations that make the toy world special.
Shannon is perfect for this role. She has been involved with us in various capacities for over a decade and is universally respected within our industry. Personally, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing Shannon’s journey—from her beginnings as a self-publisher to becoming Director of Product Development and then Director of Inventor Relations, all the while staying true to her roots as an educator. Throughout the process, she led with integrity, honesty and an unwavering commitment to her colleagues.
Swindle began her career as a teacher and her passion for education and game-based learning continues through every new role. Swindle is Bi’s Director of Product Developmentg G Creative, specializing in board game development and later becoming Inventor Relations Manager for Moose Toys. Here, Swindle played a key role in the development of the gaming division. She has licensed 18 games in just two years across a variety of categories, including the award-winning “Pickleball Blast.”
As Director of People of Play, Swindle plans to expand the reach of POP events, strengthen community connections, and focus on revolutionary products and creators that push the creative boundaries of the industry. Together with Mary Couzin, senior vice president of the Toy Association and founder of POP, the two will focus on the power of innovation, imagination and play to reinvigorate the industry.
“It is an incredible honor to join People of Play and work with Mary Couzin,” said Swindle. “We share the same values and vision and believe in the importance of play and its power to bring people together. I look forward to creating meaningful experiences that celebrate the work of toy and game designers and continue to support an industry that I am passionate about Incredible people.
