The global licensing community is guided by an incredible group of senior executives whose diverse backgrounds and creative energy drive innovation and excellence. Each month, we’re profiling one of these professionals in this ongoing series.

How do you start your day?
My days always starts with research. I like to review the trades, read articles, and do research that I put on my agenda from the day before.

What’s one item you always need on your desk?
My desk at home is my Poker Table, so I have lots of space to play with! I love to keep inspiration of some of the projects we are working with.

What unique skill or characteristic do you bring to your team?
I’m always the “out of the box” thinker on the team—What can we do different? How can we spin the opportunity for a promotional partner, retailer, or licensor? I love to come up with new ways to strategically maximize opportunity for our partners.

What is something you learned at a previous job that prepared you for your current role?
I came from the movie theatre business, working both as a buyer and in marketing. I think my experience as a buyer has given me a unique insight into working with retail. Additionally, my role in marketing allows me to view opportunities from a different perspective.

What is your favorite aspect of your current role?
I love the opportunity to work with multiple partners in different aspects of the business. The wonderful thing about licensing is there is always something new to learn and to bring to our partners.

What is one thing you would change about the licensing industry?
I am really trying to put the NORTH back in North America and make sure that Canada is given the proper respect! I want to show partners and the industry that there are great retailers and revenue sources in Canada if it is treated properly.

If you had an extra hour in your workday, how would you use it?
Education! I love to learn and love to keep up to date on all of the trends in the industry and at retail in general.

What is one thing you need to do every day to feel accomplished?
I never like to leave an email unanswered, so I always like to ensure that I have replied to all emails by the end of the day!

Are you a carry-on or checked bag traveler?
I am the worst—I usually have a carry-on and a checked bag. I never know if I am going to bring home samples or need to bring something to a meeting, so I regrettably use both.

What do you always have in your suitcase on a work trip?
Because I always travel with an iPad, laptop, headphones, etc., I always have power adapters and charging cords to make sure I am always ready!

If you weren’t in licensing, what would you be doing?
I’d be the play-by-play voice of the Toronto Maple Leafs.

What advice would you give to yourself 10 years ago?
If you want to be truly happy, try to only work with people you like. Life is too short to work with people who don’t want to be true partners.

What are you most excited about in 2023?
I’m excited to travel and see partners face-to-face. I’m ready to minimize the use of Zoom, Teams, Google Meet, and all the other apps.