Leaf appoints O’Neil as new CEO

Announcement comes days after Brian Gray steps down from position

By David Yarger

Co-Host The Chase

Monday afternoon, Leaf Trading Cards released a statement on Twitter that it has appointed Kevin O’Neil as the company’s new CEO. 

This news comes on the heels of former Leaf CEO Brian Gray announcing that he was stepping down from the position after spending 13 years with the company. 

O’Neil brings vast years of experience and service in the hobby, including time with Upper Deck, Topps and Beckett. With Upper Deck, O’Neil was the retail sales manager for over a year, before spending over 10 years with Topps as retail account manager and director of hobby sales. He also spent a brief time with Beckett as the vice president of sales.

Leaf Trading Cards is thrilled to announce the appointment of Kevin O'Neil as its new CEO. pic.twitter.com/6MqiDnUOZ0

— Leaf Trading Cards (@Leaf_Cards) August 28, 2023

In a statement posted to Twitter, Leaf announced they are “thrilled to announce the appointment of Kevin O’Neil as its new CEO. With his extensive experience and expertise in the hobby, Kevin is poised to steer the company towards new heights of success.”

Leaf also announced that joining O’Neil will be Josh Pankow and Gregg Kohn as vice presidents. 

Pankow has been the owner of Atlanta Sports Cards for the last 17-plus years, while Kohn has spent the last 10-plus years at Leaf as vice president of product development. 

Leaf said the move will infuse “the company with their distinct expertise and strategic prowess.”

“I’m both excited and proud to be named the next CEO of Leaf Trading Cards,” O’Neil said in a statement. “This position comes with big shoes to fill, along with the responsibility of continuing to produce highly collectible innovative products. I look forward to connecting with the many stakeholders of Leaf including employees, partners and collectors next week.” 

Additionally, in a tweet, Gray added his excitement for his former company. 

“So excited for the future of Leaf! Kevin O’Neil will do an amazing job of leading the next phase of Leaf’s growth alongside Josh Pankow and Gregg Kohn.”

So excited for the future of Leaf! Kevin O’Neil will do an amazing job of leading the next phase of Leaf’s growth alongside Josh Pankow and Gregg Kohn (@ScoobyCub ) …

Somehow, this day just keeps getting better and better …

Go Leaf!!! https://t.co/SB32PSg8sg

— Brian Gray (@briancgray) August 28, 2023