The Women Who’ve Led Mattel: A Look at Its Female CEOs
Ruth Handler: The Woman Behind Barbie and Mattel’s Rise
Though never CEO, Ruth Handler was the co-founder of Mattel and one of the most influential women in the company’s history—and in the global toy industry at large. Born in 1916, Handler co-founded Mattel with her husband, Elliot Handler, in 1945. But it was in 1959, with the invention of Barbie, that she truly reshaped the toy market and created a cultural icon.
Inspired by her daughter’s fascination with paper dolls, Handler envisioned a three-dimensional adult-like doll that allowed girls to imagine their future selves. Despite skepticism from others at Mattel, she pushed forward with the idea, and Barbie debuted at the New York Toy Fair, eventually becoming one of the best-selling toys of all time.
Handler served as Mattel’s President from 1945 until 1973, when she was forced to resign amid a financial scandal involving falsified earnings reports. Despite the controversy, her legacy as a trailblazing woman in business and the creative force behind one of the world’s most iconic brands remains unshaken.
Jill Barad (CEO: 1997–2000)
Jill Barad made history as Mattel’s first female CEO, leading the toy giant from 1997 to 2000. She began her career at Mattel in 1981 in product management and climbed the ranks, eventually becoming president and COO before her CEO appointment. Barad played a major role in expanding the Barbie brand and also spearheaded Mattel’s acquisition of The Learning Company—though that move ultimately led to her resignation after financial losses. Still, her leadership marked a pivotal moment for women in the toy and entertainment industry.
Lisa Marie Bongiovanni (Acting CEO: 2000)
After Barad stepped down, Lisa Marie Bongiovanni, then a senior executive, served briefly in an acting CEO capacity during the company’s transition period. Though not officially appointed as permanent CEO, her stewardship helped stabilize Mattel during a turbulent phase.
Related: Greg Abel: The Future CEO of Berkshire Hathaway
Related: Mattel Apologizes After 'Wicked' Doll Packaging Links to Adult Website
Mattel's current CEO
Ynon Kreiz
As of 2025, Mattel is currently led by Ynon Kreiz, who took over in 2018, making Jill Barad the only officially appointed female CEO in Mattel’s history to date. Despite this, several women continue to hold key executive roles in the company, contributing to its creative and strategic direction.
Ynon Kreiz
