We’ve ID(W)ed a few new suspects tied to the comic book publisher, as IDW Publishing has hired three new faces, and promoted two.
The new hires are: Jake Thomas a Group Editor for TMNT, along with support for Godzilla and Sonic the Hedgehog; Darrin Robinson as Art Director; and Corey Wells as Fan Engagement Coordinator. Meanwhile, Ryan Balkam has been promoted from Speciality Sales Manager to Director of Sales, and Cassandra Jones has been promoted from Editorial Assistant to Associate Editor, working on the Star Trek and Monster High lines. Side note: I should really write the new New York City Mayor Mamdani and suggest he turn the High Line into the Monster High Line for next Halloween. Anyway.
Interestingly, the pub frames the hires and promotions as part of “big Plans” for 2026. What those are? TBA.
You can read IDW’s official press release language about the new hires/promotions below, alongside some cute drawings of the staffers by Megan Levens:
Jake Thomas joins the team as Group Editor. With 11 years at Marvel and four years at Humanoids, Jake brings his passion for comics to the TMNT line while also supporting other lines, like GODZILLA and SONIC THE HEDGEHOG. “We’re thrilled to have Jake Thomas at IDW helming our TMNT line. I’ve been extremely impressed by Jake’s creativity, organization and dedication to working with artists and business partners alike to find the best path forward in any given situation,” commented Bobby Curnow, Editor-in-Chief. “ I’ve enjoyed seeing Jake’s leadership in action and know he will take the Turtles into a new era of awesomeness. We can’t wait to read all the great comics Jake will bring to the table!”
IDW proudly welcomes Darran Robinson and Corey Wells to the company. As Art Director, Darran will focus primarily on designs, logos, and much more for various IDW comics and projects. He worked at DC for almost eight years, and also worked on design projects for Disney, WWE, Activision, and more. As Fan Engagement Coordinator, Corey will expand IDW’s community engagement through social media, videos, events, and much more. Corey’s previous experience includes working in comic book shops (Fantom Comics, Showcase Comics) and TKO Studios.
“We’re thrilled to welcome Corey and Darran to the IDW team,” stated Aub Driver, VP of Marketing. “Corey brings a deep understanding of fandom and community engagement that will help strengthen our connection with readers across every platform, while Darran’s creative eye and design expertise will elevate how we present our stories visually. Both bring fresh energy and perspective to IDW’s next chapter, and I’m excited to see the mark they’ll make on our brand and our fans.”
Ryan Balkam has been promoted from Speciality Sales Manager to Director of Sales. With more than two years of experience at IDW, Ryan will focus on sales analysis, publishing and retailer strategies, and much more. During his time at IDW, he heavily promoted TMNT’s best-selling relaunch, crafted the hit TMNT #13 blind bag program, and built the engaging Whatnot partnership. “Ryan’s insight and dedication to our retail and distribution partners have been invaluable,” added Driver. “His ability to blend data with a genuine passion for the comics industry makes him an incredible asset to IDW. This promotion is well-earned, and we’re excited to see him continue to drive growth and collaboration across our sales ecosystem.”
Cassandra Jones received a promotion from Editorial Assistant to Associate Editor. With almost two years at IDW, Cassandra will continue to help craft and coordinate comics from the STAR TREK and MONSTER HIGH lines, as well as select horror comics from the IDW DARK imprint. “Cassandra Jones has consistently gone above and beyond in every editorial endeavor she has been tasked with,” said Curnow. “She has provided crucial support to our Star Trek line and is always bringing us exciting new projects and ideas. IDW knows that Cassandra will be an integral part of our team and we are therefore delighted to see her take on more responsibilities with her new role as an Associate Editor.”
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