The global licensing community is powered by an incredible group of professionals whose diverse backgrounds and creative energy drive innovation and excellence. We profile one of these professionals each week, and in this special edition of the People Profile series we are introducing one of the 2022 Rising Stars Award recipients to shine a spotlight on their success.

How did you get into licensing (or how did licensing find you)?

Six years ago, I was working part-time at my local Disney Store and occasionally we’d have guests who would attempt to return Disney products that weren’t purchased from the Disney Store. I was so surprised and had to explain that Disney licensed out their rights to licensees to create products. After working at the Disney Store, I transferred to a position in the merchandising department at Marvel Entertainment, where I worked on both Marvel and Disney consumer products and gained a better understanding of the licensing industry. This led to my current role on the products licensing team at Sesame Workshop.

What’s a “typical” day in your current position?

I work very closely with our brand creative and brand marketing teams on product and marketing approvals. I oversee product development on all softlines categories in North America including apparel, accessories, footwear, health and beauty, food, infant, and print on demand. Between submissions and reviewing products, I also meet with our partners for business reviews where I provide Sesame Street brand updates.

What’s your biggest personal or professional accomplishment?

Besides being recognized as a Rising Star by Licensing International, my biggest accomplishment was when I signed a deal with Hedley & Bennett, a DTC apron company. This was the first project I oversaw and brought to fruition. Our Cookie Monster aprons were #1 during the 2021 holiday season!

What are the most significant trends or changes that you’ve seen in the business in recent years?

The pandemic had a huge impact on the economy and consumer spending. eCommerce spiked when everyone was staying home and there was increased spending in particular categories including loungewear, books, and games. When brick-and-mortar stores reopened, people were eager to shop in-person again. Now, we are seeing the effects of macroeconomics with inflation, overstock, and decreased consumer spending. It will be interesting to see the results from this holiday season.

What keeps you up at night? What’s your biggest challenge these days?

My biggest challenge is making sure we are executing the best products possible as a brand. Since Sesame Street has a large baby and toddler demographic, it is important we are closely evaluating ingredients in health and beauty and food products.  We want to partner with the best licensees to ensure products are meeting and exceeding industry standards.

In your opinion, what is the top skill every licensing executive should have in order to succeed?

Attention to detail. Whether you are reviewing contracts, products, or ingredient lists, it is important to pay attention to the smallest details.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, or what’s your favorite quote?

Always listen and stay informed. Whether in everyday life or in the news, it is important to stay up to date with the latest trends and current events.

What is your favorite licensing deal of all time? (It doesn’t have to be one that was signed by you.)

I loved the Vera Bradley x Peanuts collection from last holiday season. Vera Bradley is one of my favorite brands and the collaboration was so well executed from both a product and marketing perspective.

If you weren’t in licensing, what would you be doing now?

I love cruising! I would probably be working in the travel industry with a cruise line in either marketing or social media. I even have my own vlog dedicated to cruising and traveling around the world!

The last licensed product I bought was…

The Shrek franchise was my favorite movies growing up. I recently purchased a Shrek athletic jersey from Hot Topic. I will always be an ogre fan.

The Rising Stars Award recognizes the next generation of leaders around the world for their commitment, passion, and contributions to their company and the licensing industry. For the first time, the Rising Stars were recognized and celebrated at the Hall of Fame Gala Luncheon in New York City on December 7th, 2022