Andrew Gatto Named President, CEO at Russ Berrie

Andrew R. Gatto has been appointed President and Chief Executive Officer at Russ Berrie and Company, Inc. (RUSS). He succeeds Angelica Berrie, who will serve as the company's Vice Chairman of the Board. Gatto has more than 30 years of experience in the toy industry, most recently as Senior Vice President of Product Development, Imports, and Strategic Sourcing for Toys 'R' Us. He assumed his duties at RUSS in May 2005.     In making the announcement, Ms. Berrie said, "With his leadership capabilities and his strengths in product development and sourcing, Andy has the right mix of operating and management experience to maintain the momentum we have generated during the past year and continue to move the Company forward." Gatto, 56, said, "RUSS is a company with a rich tradition, a loyal customer base, and dedicated employees around the world. I am looking forward to the challenge of leading the company in an ever-changing global marketplace to remain the most formidable competitor in the gift industry." At Toys 'R' Us, Gatto created two of the most successful brands, Animal Alley Plush and Home Depot Tools, and established a global private brands division. He also was responsible for operations of the Asia Sourcing Divisions in Hong Kong and Shenzen.     Gatto has served as President and CEO of V-Tech Industries' Play-Tech Division and of Matchbox Toys, North America. He has also held senior management positions with Toy Biz, LJN Toys, Durham Industries, and Fisher Price Toys. A resident of Saddle River, New Jersey, Gatto is a graduate of Rider University. He and his wife, Susan, are parents of three grown children.