Simon Benton

Doer
DISC Type : ds

Vice President, TCG Sales at The Pokémon Company International

United Kingdom

Overview

Simon Benton is a Vice President at The Pokémon Company International with over 15 years of experience in global sales and marketing for licensed entertainment products. He has a history of leading international teams at major brands like Panini and The Topps Company. Colleagues have described him as smart, hard-working, and a results-driven leader.

Simon is a parent of former students at Sheldon School, where he has been actively involved with the schools Pokémon Club, sharing insights and donating prizes for events. He speaks to students about the importance of curiosity and creativity, encouraging them to question the status quo to forge their own unique paths.

He was a guest speaker at a school awards evening, emphasizing community, education, and creativity.

Personality Overview

Deliberate Doer

Results Focused

Long-term Focused

They are very professional in their approach and can weigh multiple perspectives together.  They exhibit a rare combination of being result-oriented but patient at the same time. They might take some time to make their mind up but once they do, they don't change it easily.

Topics They Care About

Global Brand Licensing
His career is built on managing licensed sports and entertainment products for world-leading brands like Pokémon, Panini, and Topps across international markets.
International Market Growth
Currently focused on expanding Pokémon TCG sales across Europe and has previously led teams to achieve record sales in over 85 countries.
Toy Industry Recognition
He celebrates industry achievements, such as Pokémon TCG winning the "Pocket Money Toy of the Year" and other awards from toy industry associations.

Media Appearances

Simon has no verified media appearances

Work History

9-2016
Vice President, TCG Sales at The Pokémon Company International
1-2012 - 9-2016
Sales & Marketing Director - International Markets at The Topps Company
5-2007 - 11-2011
Group Sales & Marketing Director, International - Worldwide at Panini
10-2003 - 4-2007
Head of Magazine and Collectables at Panini
6-2001 - 10-2003
National Account Manager at Seymour Distribution

Education

2005 - 2007
Diploma in Magazine Publishing from Periodical Publishers Association
1988 - 1990
HND from Birmingham City University

More Information

Social Presence :

Prographics :

Exp : 34 Location : United Kingdom Job Level : Senior Designation : Vice President, TCG Sales at The Pokémon Company International
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Insights For Selling To Simon

During A Call Or A Meeting

DO's

  • Use phrases like 'your team deserves', 'best in class' etc.
  • Stick to your standard pitch and qualifying script, don't try to wing it
  • Ask them at the end if they see a strong value prop in your product; expect an honest answer

DONT's

  • Don't take their patience for granted, avoid long-winding sermons
  • Don't shy away from asking hard questions, but be extra polite
  • Don't get into pricing discussions early on, steer conversation towards proven results

When Cold Calling

When Writing An Email

While Negotiating & Closing

    The secret to closing fast with Simon is

  • Strong proof of impact and their conviction will matter the most, but they wouldn't want to act unilaterally either
  • Will you ever get a clear answer from Simon

  • They will say no if they are not convinced but you will have to prompt them.

Insights For Deal Planning

    How fast (or slow) will Simon move?

  • They will want to understand things well but can move fast once they have a clear picture.
  • Can Simon take some risk or not?

  • They have good risk tolerance but are likely to think it through once or twice.

You And Simon

Personality Compatibility


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