John Hales, co-founder and long-time chairman of the company, has decided to retire after 40 years at the helm.

John Harper

Golden Bear is pleased to confirm the appointment of John Harper as non-executive chairman of Golden Bear with immediate effect.

John Hales, co-founder and long-time chairman of the company, has decided to retire after 40 years at the helm. He remains the major shareholder and will remain a director of the company.

John Harper is well known to many people within the toy industry. Having been with Hasbro for many years, he was president of Hasbro Europe before taking early retirement. He subsequently formed a consultancy business and has been a mentor to a number of well-known toy companies.

John Hales said: “John Harper will work with the senior team at Golden Bear to bring a new approach to the business, ensuring the company achieves significant growth over the next 3-5 years. The toy industry is going through many changes and it is time I retired and introduce a new pair of eyes. I have now seen over 50 Toy Fairs and I have enjoyed every minute of this very invigorating business. However, nothing is forever, and it is time for me to step down. I wish John and the senior team at Golden Bear every success in the years ahead.”

Barry Hughes, managing director of Golden Bear, added: “John Hales is a toy industry icon and leaves an incredible legacy at Golden Bear and many, many fond memories. Everyone at the company wishes John a long and happy retirement. The senior team is very excited and enthused about John Harper joining us as non-executive chairman, and we look forward to working with him to drive Golden Bear to new heights.”