``During my career at Kraft Foods, I had the opportunity to work directly with both Bryan and Tom,'' said Eckert. ``Experts in their respective fields, I am confident that Bryan will provide Mattel with the clear, strategic thought required as we refocus on generating sustainable, profitable growth for Mattel, and that Tom will utilize his proficiencies in operations and manufacturing to ensure better management of the all-important supply chain.''

Bryan G. Stockton

Stockton comes to Mattel from Basic Vegetable Products, a privately-owned company that is the largest manufacturer of vegetable ingredients in the world, where he served as president and chief executive officer for two years. He began his career at Oscar Mayer in 1976 as a management trainee and culminated his career at Kraft Foods as president of Kraft's North American Foodservices, one of the company's largest divisions. During his tenure at Kraft Foods, Stockton also held many other top-level positions, including vice president of strategic initiatives, new product development, international marketing services and government relations for Kraft's Oscar Mayer Foods Division, and vice president of marketing for the retail cheese division of Kraft Foods.

In his new position at Mattel, Stockton's primary responsibility is to identify and develop synergies throughout all cross-functional departments in order to support Mattel as a whole. Another central element of his function is the management of the company's strategic planning, as well as supervising all merger and acquisition activity. As executive vice president of business planning and development, Stockton will also oversee worldwide advertising services; creative services; government and trade relations; corporate responsibility; business affairs; and corporate communications.

``Mattel is an industry powerhouse of time-tested brands,'' said Stockton. ``I am excited about uncovering untapped opportunities within the company and look forward to working with Bob and the entire management team on building the Mattel of the future.''

Thomas A. Debrowski

During his 20-year tenure at Kraft Foods, Debrowski rose through the ranks to vice president and director of grocery operations for Kraft USA. While at Kraft, Debrowski spent seven years living and working overseas and was responsible for regional operations in both Europe and Asia-Pacific, respectively.

In 1991, Debrowski accepted a position with The Pillsbury Company as vice president of operations for the Baked Goods Division, where he was responsible for manufacturing and engineering. Less than a year later, Debrowski was promoted to senior vice president of operations for Pillsbury Worldwide. During this period, Debrowski was responsible for worldwide purchasing, manufacturing, quality, engineering, environmental affairs, logistics, and operations strategy.

At Mattel, Debrowski will be responsible for all worldwide manufacturing and distribution activities. With the eventual assumption of vendor operations, Debrowski will be responsible for the entire supply chain. In his new position, he will oversee the operations and distribution departments, which includes quality and operational technology; product integrity; and operational planning.

``Since Bob has made better management of the supply chain a top priority for the company, it makes joining Mattel all the more exciting,'' said Debrowski. ``I look forward to the challenges that lie ahead in improving customer service and lowering costs, as well as capitalizing on an already strong and dedicated worldwide team.''

About Mattel

Mattel, Inc. is the worldwide leader in the design, manufacture and marketing of toys and family products. The company's best-selling brands include Barbie�, Hot Wheels�, Fisher-Price� and American Girl�. With headquarters in El Segundo, California, Mattel has offices and facilities in 36 countries and sells its product in more than 150 nations throughout the world. The company's website can be found at www.mattel.com.

SOURCE: Mattel, Inc.

[Posted 11/02/2000]