Mattel Sues Former Exec Now at Rival

Toy maker Mattel Inc. sued a former high-level executive for allegedly taking proprietary information about the company to his new employer, MGA Entertainment Inc., the maker of popular Bratz dolls.

In a suit filed Thursday, the maker of Barbie dolls alleged that phone records show Ronald Brawer, a former senior vice president and general manager of sales, was secretly making plans throughout the summer to take a job with the rival toy maker. At the same time, the suit alleged, Brawer was gathering significant amounts of detailed confidential Mattel information about new product lines, sales and marketing plans and licensing opportunities. Brawer announced his plans to join MGA in September, according to the suit.

Neither Brawer nor MGA could be reached for comment.

-- Abigail Goldman