Miko Appoints Melanie Schniepp as Vice President of Retail Sales and Marketing

Miko has hired Melanie Schniepp as its new vice president of retail sales and marketing, bringing on a seasoned industry leader to support the company’s next phase of U.S. growth. Schniepp will guide Miko’s retail strategy, brand awareness efforts, and distribution expansion as the company continues to scale its AI-powered robotics portfolio for kids.

“We know Melanie will be a huge asset to the Miko team. Her experience in the toy and tech industries makes her the ideal fit to support us on our mission to redefine how children engage with technology and empower the next generation to thrive in this rapidly evolving world,” says Ritvik Sharma, senior vice president of growth at Miko.

Schniepp previously spent nearly five years at Tonies, where she played a central role in expanding the brand’s retail footprint at Target and helped drive significant wholesale revenue gains in 2025. Her background also includes positions at Dolby, Ecovacs Robotics, GoPro, and PlayStation, providing her with extensive experience across the consumer electronics and technology sectors.

“My time at Tonies was incredibly rewarding,” Schniepp shares. “I’m excited for this new adventure with Miko, where I can apply my big-picture thinking to a growing company. The opportunity to help inspire curiosity, creativity, and connection in kids around the world is one I’m excited to venture into.”

At Miko, Schniepp will lead initiatives focused on big-box retail placement, parent-focused marketing programs, and efforts aimed at expanding consumer trust in Miko’s AI products. She is overseeing the rollout of the Miko Mini+ robot to Costco stores nationwide as well as the brand’s recently announced partnership with iHeart Media.

Miko’s lineup introduces children to AI through secure, kid-friendly robots designed to make learning interactive, emotional, and fun. The flagship Miko 3 and Miko Mini products offer personalized conversational experiences that support emotional development, creativity, and hands-on discovery. The company also develops interactive AI-powered chess boards designed for both new learners and experienced players.

Founded in 2015, Miko focuses on bridging education and entertainment with robots and connected experiences that strengthen problem-solving, creativity, and STEAM skills. 

To learn more information about the company and its products, visit miko.ai.