Build-A-Bear names Chris Hurt as CEO after record revenue
Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc. announced Chris Hurt as the new Chief Executive Officer effective June 11, 2026, taking over from Sharon Price John who served for 13 years. The company achieved $529.8 million in total revenues for fiscal 2025, its fifth consecutive year of record results. Executive leadership changes include Voin Todorovic adding the Chief Administrative Officer role and Dave Henderson becoming Chief Growth Officer.

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Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc. has appointed Chris Hurt as its new Chief Executive Officer, effective June 11, 2026, succeeding Sharon Price John who led the company for 13 years. The leadership transition occurs as the company reported total revenues of $529.8 million for fiscal 2025, representing its fifth consecutive year of record results. Hurt, a veteran executive with over 11 years at Build-A-Bear, most recently served as Chief Operations and Experience Officer and will now focus on driving profitable growth and innovation.
Sharon Price John will remain on the Board of Directors following her tenure as CEO. The Board expressed confidence in Hurt's ability to build on proven strategies and unlock further value for the brand. The company also announced structural changes to its executive leadership team to align with its evolved strategic priorities, including disciplined financial management and operational efficiency.
Executive Leadership Changes
The company implemented immediate updates to its executive leadership structure alongside the CEO transition. These changes are designed to strengthen global operations and accelerate growth across various channels and markets.
| Executive | New Role | Previous Role |
|---|---|---|
| Chris Hurt | Chief Executive Officer | Chief Operations and Experience Officer |
| Voin Todorovic | Chief Administrative Officer & Chief Financial Officer | Chief Financial Officer |
| Dave Henderson | Chief Growth Officer | Chief Revenue Officer |
Voin Todorovic expands his responsibilities to include enterprise-wide administrative oversight in addition to his existing financial leadership duties. Dave Henderson's appointment as Chief Growth Officer reflects an increased focus on long-term global growth, revenue diversification, and strategic expansion initiatives.
Strategic Focus and Performance
Build-A-Bear operates more than 650 company-owned, partner-operated, and franchise experience locations across over 30 countries. The company's current brand platform, "The Stuff You Love," aims to celebrate nearly 30 years of helping people mark life's meaningful moments. The fiscal 2025 revenue of $529.8 million underscores the effectiveness of its strategies at the intersection of pop-culture trends and retailtainment.
The leadership team is dedicated to advancing experiences, partnerships, and opportunities for innovation. Hurt stated that the company is positioned for strength with a clear strategy, a powerful brand, and a talented global team. The organization remains focused on maintaining its status as a distinctive and beloved company.
What specific innovations or digital initiatives does Chris Hurt plan to prioritize to sustain the company's record revenue growth?
How will the creation of the Chief Growth Officer role influence the company's strategy for revenue diversification and international expansion?
What are the expected financial impacts of the new executive leadership structure on operational efficiency and cost management?

























