Paramount Pictures has appointed Jennifer Dodge as the new president of Paramount Animation, effective January 5. Dodge, previously with Spin Master Entertainment, replaces Ramsey Naito following her departure at the end of October. She will oversee the studio's development and production amid ongoing company changes.
Appointment Details
Jennifer Dodge, a veteran executive from Spin Master Entertainment, has been named president of Paramount Animation. She will report to Paramount Pictures co-chairs Dana Goldberg and Josh Greenstein and start her role on January 5. Dodge takes over from Ramsey Naito, who left the position at the end of October amid executive shifts related to Paramount's $8 billion merger with Skydance Media.
In her new position, Dodge will manage all aspects of the animation division, from development to release. Paramount's leadership praised her expertise, with Goldberg and Greenstein stating, “Jennifer is an exceptional creative executive and producer with a proven track record of building franchises that connect with global audiences. Her deep understanding of storytelling, world-building and brand development make her the ideal leader to shape the next era of Paramount Animation.”
Background and Experience
Dodge most recently served as president of Spin Master Entertainment and Consumer Products, where she oversaw the growth of animated content including the popular “PAW Patrol” franchise. She played a key role in producing “PAW Patrol: The Movie” in 2021 and its 2023 sequel “PAW Patrol: The Mighty Movie,” both distributed by Paramount. Earlier in her career, Dodge worked at Spin Master from 2009 to 2015 and at Nickelodeon Preschool as senior VP of development.
Dodge expressed enthusiasm for the opportunity, saying, “I’ve always believed in the power of animation to inspire, entertain and unite audiences of all ages. Paramount has a rich legacy of bringing bold, imaginative stories to life. I’m honored to join Dana, Josh and the entire team as we expand that vision and create the next generation of unforgettable animated films.”
Upcoming Projects
Under Dodge's leadership, Paramount Animation will release several high-profile films. These include “The SpongeBob Movie: Search for SquarePants” this December, followed by “PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie” and “Legend of Aang: The Last Airbender” in 2026, and “Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles: Mutant Mayhem” in 2027. The appointment comes as Paramount navigates broader staffing reductions announced by new chairman and CEO David Ellison, affecting around 2,000 U.S. jobs.