IDW Publishing is readying for their 2026 publishing plans with three new hires and two promotions.

Jake Thomas, who spent 11 years at Marvel and four at Humaniods, is joining IDW as Group Editor. He will work on the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles and supporting 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,” IDW Editor-in-Chief Bobby Curnow said. “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!”

Darran Robinson has been hired as Art Director and will focus on designs, logos, and more for IDW comics and other projects. Prior to this, he spent eight years at DC and has experience with Disney, WWE, and Activision.

Corey Wells was hired as Fan Engagement Coordinator and will expand IDW’s community engagement on social media, through videos, events, and beyond. Prior to this post, Wells worked at Fantom Comics, Showcase Comics, and TKO Studios.

“We’re thrilled to welcome Corey and Darran to the IDW team,” VP of Marketing Aub Driver said. “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 Specialty Sales Manager to Director of Sales where he will focus on sales analysis, publishing and retailer strategies, and beyond. In his two years at IDW, Balkam helped promote the TMNT relaunch, crafted the TMNT #13 blind bag program, and built the Whatnot partnership.

“Ryan’s insight and dedication to our retail and distribution partners have been invaluable,” Driver said. “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 has been promoted from Editorial Assistant to Associate Editor. She has spent two years at IDW and will continue to help in the crafting and coordinating of comics in the Star Trek and Monster High lines, and select horror comics in the IDW Dark imprint.

“Cassandra Jones has consistently gone above and beyond in every editorial endeavor she has been tasked with,” Curnow said. “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.”