Michael Cookson

Background

About Michael Cookson

I am a passion-driven, social good entrepreneur in consumer products who maximizes a company's potential. I dare for a company to be great and dare for a company to make a difference. I have a big sense of adventure and I am always smiling away. I have built, bought, turned around and sold several companies. As CEO and/or Chairman, I have been instrumental in the creation and growth of several dynamic brands including Master Replicas/Corgi, Wham-O, Wild Planet Toys, SportsLab, Aviva Sports and others. Specialized Expertise includes: Business Development Raised significant capital from seed investors, venture funds, private equity and corporate partners and was Co-Founder and CEO of company that was highest IRR in Draper VC’s initial pre-fund. Marketing & Sales Developed new profitable markets including international. Achieved online sales of 50% at Master Replicas. Won two prestigious Public Relations Society of America (PRSA) Awards: PR Event of the Year - Wham-O’s 50th Anniversary - 1997 PR Campaign of the Year - Get Real Girl Launch - Product Development Conceptualizes new product categories. Developed over 100 award winning high quality and value based innovative products. International Experience Extensive revenues from international customers (40-50%). Sourced majority of products in China, Taiwan, Thailand and India. Some success stories-Developed a kids' sporting good company that generated $60M in annual sales within five years. Company was sold to Mattel-Reinvigorated a dormant brand resulting in sales increase from $20M to $65M in two years-Turned around a company with $10M in revenue and a $3M loss to $47M in revenue and $6M in profit in one year. If you need a conceptual and strategic leader to maximize potential and growth through building a dynamic brand, developing innovative products or navigating new and profitable markets contact Michael Cookson at MDC Associates. cooksonsf@gmail.com