IDW Levels Up: New Hires, Big Promotions, and a Monster 2025 Lineup
Coming off a blockbuster year, IDW Publishing is charging into 2025 with bold creative plans—and a reloaded team to back them up. The publisher, still riding high from the successful Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles relaunch in 2024, is expanding fast. This year, they’re building a full-fledged Godzilla comic universe, launching the horror-focused DARK imprint, and keeping momentum behind the TMNT and Star Trek lines.
But alongside the monsters, mutants, and warp drives, IDW is putting people first—with a stacked wave of promotions and fresh talent signaling a new era of ambition.
A Creative Force Grows Stronger
CEO and Publisher Davidi Jonas framed the expansion with clarity. “At IDW, we emphasize fun, meritocracy, and speaking up,” he said. “I’m proud to work with clever, kindhearted colleagues who bring big ideas to life and make every day entertaining.”
That mindset is reflected in the publisher’s latest hires. Each one brings a distinct voice to the table, united by a shared love for comics and storytelling.
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Kim Estlund joins as Book Publicist. With years of experience in music, media, and publishing, she’s ready to shine a spotlight on IDW’s expanding library. “As a longtime fan, this is going to be such fun,” she said.
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April Venditti joins as Sales Associate, bringing warmth and enthusiasm to the role. “Everyone seems so friendly and helpful,” she shared. “I can’t wait to work with this team.”
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Zane Lomeli joins as Fulfillment Coordinator, blending fandom and logistics. “It’s rewarding to support creators and connect their visions with eager fans,” they said.
Promotions Signal Deeper Investment
The internal team is also leveling up across the board. These promotions highlight the talent already driving IDW’s success:
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Aub Driver steps into the role of VP, Marketing
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Ryan Balkam becomes Direct Market Manager
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Reina Strauss moves into Content Marketing Specialist
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Samantha Johnson is now Talent Relations and Events Manager
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Chad Wood shifts to Direct-to-Consumer Operations Specialist
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Jake Williams now leads editorial for the Godzilla line
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Nicolas Niño and Ellen Boener are promoted to Associate Editors
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Alonzo Simon becomes Group Editor
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Quinn McCrillis steps into Sales & Marketing Coordinator
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Noemi Hensley becomes Logistics Manager
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Alex Ray is now Digital Manager
Additional Staff Enhancements
IDW isn’t just reinforcing editorial and marketing—design and operations are scaling too:
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Ataevious Darrington expands their role internally
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Sandy Tanaka joins as Senior Designer
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Brian Kolek is now Associate Art Director
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Ryan Godell has been added as Data Entry Coordinator
This influx of talent positions IDW for a massive creative push. Between its evolving franchises and newly announced creator support, 2025 might be its biggest year yet.
What’s Next for IDW?
From Godzilla chaos to 30 Days of Night’s return under the DARK imprint, the publisher is clearly aiming high. Readers can expect major developments in the Valiant Beyond initiative (announced earlier this year), and even more licensed properties and originals on the horizon.
About IDW Publishing
IDW (NYSE AMERICAN: IDW) is a leading global media company known for delivering dynamic stories across comics, graphic novels, television, and film. With both its publishing and entertainment divisions, IDW develops franchises with bold creative partners and compelling characters that span multiple platforms.
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Image credit: idwpublishing.com
