PRESS RELEASE
As part of its continued growth and expansion across imprints and platforms, Mad Cave Studios is thrilled to announce several exciting team updates, including the promotion of Kristen Simon to Executive Editor of Nakama Press, the addition of Charles Beacham as Editor, Holly Aitchison as Trade Marketing Manager, and the onboarding of Summer Marketing Interns Gillian McMahon and Yomari Lobo.
Kristen Simon has been promoted to Executive Editor for Nakama Press, Mad Cave’s imprint dedicated to global storytelling and manga-inspired narratives. A seasoned editor with decades of experience in the comics industry, Simon has been integral to the successful launch and direction of Nakama’s debut titles.
“I’m beyond excited that Kris has been promoted to Executive Editor—her many years of industry experience and her exceptional leadership in driving the Nakama division forward make this a well-deserved achievement,” said Mike Marts, Executive Editorial Director at Mad Cave Studios. “Her vision, dedication, and expertise have been instrumental to Mad Cave’s success, and I can’t wait to see what she accomplishes next in this new role.”
“As I step into my new role of Executive Editor, I’m thrilled to continue championing bold stories and fresh voices at Nakama Press,” said Kristen Simon. “My goal is to bring even more innovative, heartfelt, and inspiring titles to our readers, and to continue to foster a creative environment where our talented creators can thrive. The best is yet to come!”
Mad Cave also welcomes Charles Beacham as a new Editor under Executive Editorial Director Mike Marts. Charles brings editorial expertise from his time at Marvel and IDW, where he worked on major properties including Star Wars and Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles.
“Comics have played such an important role in my life,” said Charles Beacham. “The characters, stories, and universes I’ve visited on the page as a fan and an editor have stayed with me. I’m honored and excited to join Mad Cave to help shape stories for the next generation of comics fans.”
Mike Marts added, “Huge congrats to Charles Beacham on his new role as Editor at Mad Cave! With his impressive experience at both Marvel and IDW—especially on powerhouse licenses like Star Wars and TMNT—he’s bringing incredible talent and insight to the team.”
In the Marketing Department, Holly Aitchison joins the team as Trade Marketing Manager, overseeing trade-facing campaigns, metadata optimization, and retailer engagement across independent bookstores, libraries, and the direct market.
“I’m positively over the moon to join the team at Mad Cave Studios!” said Holly Aitchison. “The company has built an exemplary slate, including the revolutionary new Nakama Press imprint, and I can’t wait to get these books in front of as many eyes as possible.”
Additionally, Mad Cave welcomes two Summer Marketing Interns: Gillian McMahon and Yomari Lobo, who will support upcoming seasonal campaigns, digital initiatives, and social media planning as the company ramps up for a major summer of releases and convention appearances.
“I’m excited to welcome Holly to Mad Cave Studios’ marketing team. With a wealth of experience and a strategic mindset, they’re poised to strengthen and expand our trade marketing efforts as we continue to grow,” shared Allison Pond, VP of Marketing. “As we head into summer, I’m equally as thrilled to launch our first-ever marketing internship program. Gillian and Yomari join the team, bringing on fresh perspectives and incredible enthusiasm—we’re proud to support their development and foster the next generation of marketing professionals.”
These team updates come as Mad Cave Studios continues to expand its publishing reach and content offerings through its acclaimed imprints—Mad Cave, Maverick, Papercutz, and Nakama Press—delivering diverse, character-driven stories for readers of all ages.
