Michael Brandstaedter, MBA ’97, has been promoted to the position of chief executive officer at The Topps Company Inc., a leading creator of confectionery, sports cards, and entertainment products. In the new position, Brandstaedter also retains the title of president and focuses on advancing the evolution of Topps' iconic consumer products portfolio. He joined the company in 2009 as general manager of the global confectionery business, which includes brands such as Ring Pop and Bazooka gum. He most recently served as Topps' president and COO, where he has been instrumental in strengthening partnerships with premier properties such as Major League Baseball and Star Wars, as well as overseeing the development of global soccer and new partnerships including UEFA Champions League. Brandstaedter also has been integral in fueling significant growth with the recent creation of the Topps Digital Apps business, which has helped redefine trading cards and collecting in the digital space. Topps is owned by Michael Eisner's The Tornante Company and private equity firm Madison Dearborn Partners.