Alan Hassenfeld, former chairman and CEO of Hasbro and renowned philanthropist, passed away suddenly this week, aged 76.
Hasbro was founded by the Hassenfeld family (initially as Hassenfeld Brothers) and Alan joined the company in 1970. He rose through the ranks, initially being heavily involved in Hasbro’s international operations, before he became executive vice president in 1980 and president a few years later. In 1989, Alan became chairman and chief executive officer. Hasbro flourished under his leadership and developed into a global powerhouse in toys, entertainment and licensing. Throughout his career, Alan was never shy to take a stand and was always fiercely protective of the company and its employees.
A long and successful tenure continued until 2003, when Alan stepped down as CEO. He retired from his chairman position in 2005, becoming emeritus chairman, a role that he only relinquished last year in order to focus more on his philanthropic endeavours. This move saw the end of his family’s direct role in leading the company.
Hasbro CEO, Chris Cocks, released the following statement:
“All of us who have ever had any connection to Hasbro today are mourning the profound loss of Alan Hassenfeld, our beloved former chairman & CEO, mentor and dear friend.
“Alan’s enormous heart was, and will remain, the guiding force behind Hasbro – compassionate, imaginative and dedicated to bringing a smile to the face of every child around the world. His tireless advocacy for philanthropy, children’s welfare and the toy industry created a legacy that will inspire us always.
“While we grieve deeply, we also celebrate Alan’s remarkable life and the incredible impact he made. Our thoughts and deepest condolences are with Alan’s family, friends, and everyone who loved him.”
A passionate supporter of many charitable and social endeavours, Alan became involved in a wide variety of causes ranging from childhood hunger to issues involving refugee settlement. As chairman of the Hassenfeld Family Initiatives, he was instrumental in supporting safety and human rights connected to the supply children’s products; helping to establish the Ethical Supply Chain Program (ESCP); empowering women in developing countries; supporting the mental health of today’s youth and enhancing the economy, education and business opportunities in Rhode Island. In 2022, The Toy Foundation partnered with Alan Hassenfeld and the Hassenfeld Family Foundation to spearhead an industry-wide relief effort to support thousands of displaced families impacted by the war in Ukraine.
He was the founder of Hasbro Children’s Hospital in Providence, and his family’s contributions helped to establish the Hassenfeld Child Health Innovation Institute at Brown University.
Well known throughout the US and international toy community, Alan was widely recognised both for his impressive legacy at Hasbro and for looking beyond business matters at all times.
Isaac Larian, founder & CEO of MGA Entertainment, said: “I am saddened to hear about the passing of Alan Hassenfeld. In the competitive world of toys, he stood out as a genuine gentleman and leader. Alan’s focus was beyond mere competition; he had a deep love for children, toys and the toy industry, embodying great philanthropy. The toy business and its community will deeply miss Alan’s wisdom and passion. I am honoured for his friendship.”
John Baulch, publisher of Toy World, added: “Alan was loved and respected by everyone who ever met him. He always had time for you, no matter where you were in your career path. I last saw Alan at this year’s TOTY award ceremony in New York, where he presented an award with friend and former colleague Neil Friedman. They made a great double act, and Alan looked happy and well and on great form. His passing will come as a huge shock to all who knew him – the toy industry has lost one of its true greats.”
Team Jedi News sends our condolences to Alan’s family, friends and former colleagues at this difficult time.
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