Cadaco vet joins TIA's safety effort
By Staff -- Playthings, 3/18/2009 6:48:00 AM
NEW YORK—Toy Industry Association has appointment Michael T. Perkins as technical outreach director for the trade association’s new Toy Safety Certification Program (TSCP).
Perkins, who began his appointment on February 26, has nearly 30 years of experience in both the toy and hobby and craft businesses; he also has a background in toy development, production and testing systems in both the United States and China.
In his new role at TIA, he will implement an outreach, education and training plan that will introduce factory auditors, toy testers, and manufacturers and retailers of all sizes to the TSCP. His responsibilities will include helping these audiences understand how the program and its process requirements can help them comply with new and emerging safety standards.
Most recently, Perkins served as vice president of operations at game maker Cadaco, where he managed the product development process, international and domestic sourcing, and quality and toy safety programs. His responsibilities also included regular interface with Chinese factories to negotiate production costs and development schedules. Previously, Perkins held similar positions at Jakks Pacific, Craft House and Lindberg Hobbies.
"Michael brings a wealth of industry, safety and manufacturing knowledge to TIA," said Elizabeth Borrelli, executive director, TSCP, and TIA’s vice president of corporate social responsibility. "He clearly understands the unique views of small and medium-sized manufacturers because he has worked for smaller companies himself. We are pleased to welcome him to TIA and to the TSCP team."
Perkins will be based in Chicago.
The TSCP, which will be launched in phases during 2009, offers “a comprehensive and sustainable system that will provide reasonable verification that toys meet applicable mandatory U.S. toy safety standards,” TIA says.
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