David Huang

Head of Design, Product Development and Licensing · Wham-O

Glendale, CA

In My Own Words

Product creation and lifecycle management executive focused on sporting goods, toys, and automotive die-cast collectibles from initial concept and brand building through development, prototyping, manufacturing, packaging and marketing. Digital-market research strategies and goal setting for large product lines, new brands, catalog portfolios, and initiating and obtaining inbound and outbound licensing. Passionate creative thought leader with a clear global vision who evaluates consumer trends, incorporates feedback from sales and key accounts, and customizes products and marketing for regional differences. Engaging spokesperson who drives vision internally and inspires colleagues at external events. Trusted advisor who not only owns current product portfolios but also innovates new brands and hardlines. Passionate about consumer product creation and go-to-market planning. Company spokesperson at tradeshows, sales meetings, top national universities, and featured in TrendReports.com and Trend Hunter Magazine.

Work Experience

Head of Design, Product Development and Licensing

Wham-O

2018 – Present

Accomplishments • Drove a 62% increase in actualized sales in 12 months with product rebranding and launching new brands; a 62.5%? in 2019-2020; 12.6%? in 2020-2021; 27%? in 2021-2022 ( Last 2 years amidst pandemic supply chain challenges). • Negotiated six global licensing contracts in 2021 with significant advances and minimum guarantees for toys, pet products, apparel and collectibles. • Shepherded nine new brands and sub-brands into an iconic portfolio that already includes Frisbee, SuperBall, Hula Hoop, Hacky Sack, Morey Boogie Board, and Slip’n’Slide. • Have Launched several hundred products in outdoor, seasonal, STEM learning and educational kits, games and puzzles, junior sporting goods, and more. • Sourced and negotiated agreements with factories from China, Vietnam, Mexico, and the U.S. Responsibilities • Transform the entire product portfolio from design of new products, prototypes, global factory sourcing, and through branding, marketing, licensing, and partnerships. • Manage and inspire teams including leadership from art direction, designs, engineers, graphic design, merchandising, IP Legal Team, and additional business owners as needed. • Pitch new concepts to sales and marketing, outside sales reps and retail customers. • Review submissions from inventors and negotiate contracts, NDAs, and development guidelines. • Oversee and set timelines for product development, packaging development, and engineering. • Stay abreast of global markets, labor issues, tariffs, exchange rates and more to achieve delivery dates and pricing goals. • Manage multiple marketing initiatives such as brand ambassadors, creative and technical copy, PR announcements, trade show appearances and booths, packaging, catalogs, etc.

Vice President, Product Development

Imperial Toy

2016 – 2018

• Managed the FDA/ASTM/CE/EU compliance process for Lick-A-Bubble products and sold 13M+ units upon approval. • Led product development teams that included chemists, product designers, industrial engineers, child development and physiologists, as well as sales and marketing specialists. • Accelerated KAOS Splash Tank line’s go-to-market production and marketing initiatives delivering 80M+ YouTube views. • Collaborated on strategic creative direction and line planning.

Vice President, Design and Product Development

Maui Toys / Maui Sports, a division of Jakks

2007 – 2016

Vice President, Design and Product Development (2012 – 2016) Director, Design and Product Management (2007 – 2012) • Amplified role from marketing strategy and consumer behaviors to product management including patents, trademarks, product testing, packaging and partnerships. • Contributed to a 15% annual revenue growth in year one and significant growth annually. • Directed and produced advertising spots for major networks including Cartoon Network, Disney Channel, and KIIS FM in Los Angeles. • Received awards, nominations and unpaid promotions ranging from Toy of the Year from Toy Industry Association to industry magazines, Walmart, Target, and others.

Line Producer, Director, Production Designer, Art Director, Set Designer, Special Effects

Film / TV / Entertainment Consultant

1994 – 2007

Directed 2 nationally aired TV toy commercials, Line Produced a TV special, Production Designed 25 feature films, 2 seasons of episodic TV. See IMDB link for PARTIAL Filmography: David Huang - IMDb: https://www.imdb.com/name/nm13828648/?ref_=fn_al_nm_5

Industrial Design Consultant

Industrial Design Studios

1992 – 1994

Industrial Deign Consultant for a various Industrial Design studios in Southern California. From Brain Storming, Conceptual Ideation Sketches, Machine Shop Model Building, to Prototyping. Projects included categories such as: Indoor/Outdoor Lighting, Exercise Equipment, Marine Equipment, Medical Equipment, Military Satellite Tracking Devices and Interfaces.