Tom Kalinske | |
|---|---|
 Kalinske in 2023 | |
| Born | July 17, 1944 Iowa, US |
| Education | University of Wisconsin (BA) University of Arizona (MBA) |
| Occupation | Executive Chairman of Global Education Learning |
| Known for | former CEO, Sega of America, Inc. |
| Spouse | Karen Kalinske |
| Children | 6 |
Thomas Kalinske (born July 17, 1944) is an American businessman who has worked for Mattel (1972–1987), Matchbox (1987-1990), Sega of America (1990–1996) and LeapFrog (1997–2006).
At Mattel, Kalinske was credited with reviving the Barbie and Hot Wheels brands, launching Masters of the Universe, then being promoted to CEO from 1985 to 1987. He next became CEO of Matchbox, and then was recruited to be the president and CEO of Sega of America from 1990 to 1996, and then CEO and COB of LeapFrog from 1997 to 2006.
His aggressive marketing decisions during his time at Sega, such as price drops, anti-Nintendo attack ads and the famous "Sega Scream" TV campaign, are often cited as key elements in the success of the Sega Genesis. The book Console Wars and the documentary film of the same name chronicles Kalinske's strategies and success in competing with Nintendo.
Kalinske was inducted into the Toy Industry Hall of Fame in 1997 and received a Lifetime Achievement award from People of Play in 2021. He has also been honored as "Man of the Year" by the NY Boy Scouts and LA Make A Wish Foundation.
He is Chairman of Mixed Dimensions, a 3D printing company, and on the boards of Stitched Insights, Adjunct Professor Link, Storyworld, the University of Wisconsin School of Business and Teach The World Foundation. His estimated net worth is $10–$20M.