GREG CARTY
Licensing Manager at NFL Players Inc.
Based in U.S.

Greg Carty is Licensing Manager at NFL Players Inc., the marketing and licensing arm of the NFLPA, which manages the commercial rights of over 2,000 players, making it one of the largest licensors in the world. As a key member of the Consumer Products and Strategy group, he oversees a diverse portfolio of over 35 licensees, including brands like EA Sports, New Era, and Ubisoft, driving innovative player-branded consumer products across apparel, hardlines, and digital platforms. Greg began his career with a college internship at NASCAR, quickly rising from Licensing Assistant to Manager. His contributions included managing key licensees and coordinating operations of trackside retail. Since joining NFL Players Inc. in 2022, Greg has established himself as a transformative leader, pushing boundaries while championing diversity in the licensing industry. He holds a B.S. Sport Management from Winston-Salem State University, a Master’s in Sport Management from Old Dominion University and is a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc.

TERESA CURTIS
Sr. Manager, Licensing & Business Development at Jay Franco and Sons Inc.
Based in U.S.

Teresa Curtis unexpectedly found her way into the world of licensing in 2020 as a Coordinator, driving approvals for select Jay Franco partnerships, and rapidly developed a passion for the industry. A New York native and LIM College graduate, Teresa’s dedication propelled her into a leadership role. Now, as Senior Licensing Manager, she oversees Jay Franco’s entire portfolio and plays a crucial role in onboarding new partnerships and driving growth across the business. With her expertise and insight, Teresa skillfully navigates the ever-evolving licensing landscape, positioning Jay Franco for continued growth and innovation.

OLIVER GILDING
Head of Innovation & Licensing at Iceland Foods
Based in U.K.

Oliver is the Head of Innovation & Licensing at Iceland Foods, where he has significantly contributed to the company’s growth and strategic direction. Since starting his career in licensing in 2021, Oliver has been instrumental in transforming Iceland’s Exclusive Branded offering into a diverse portfolio of over 500 products across 30 different licenses. His innovative approach and positive mindset have led to accelerated, impactful product launches with global brands across grocery, restaurant, and lifestyle categories. As the driving force behind Iceland’s cross-category licensing program, Oliver has played a key role in establishing a unique point of difference for the retailer in the UK market. His efforts have ensured that Iceland consistently offers its customers exceptional value and high-quality products throughout the year, all while delivering successful collaborations and maintaining a strong commitment to innovation.

GEMMA HAY
Manager, Global Franchise Marketing at Mattel
Based in U.S.

Gemma’s licensing career began in January 2020 with Mattel EMEA, working on the action figure portfolio with the key licensors including Disney, Universal, WWE and Microsoft. She then took on the EMEA brand and franchise management of Thomas & Friends and Fireman Sam. Today, she is based in Los Angeles, California, leading the global franchise relaunch and brand management of Barney the Dinosaur (an exciting full-circle moment having grown up a Barney kid herself!). Prior to joining the licensing industry, Gemma worked in global marketing for international spirits company, Edrington (The Macallan, The Famous Grouse). Her specialties include brand and franchise management, content development for preschool entertainment IP and business development. Gemma is most passionate about bringing important lessons to children through entertainment and building brands that kids and families love.

DAVID JOLLY
Marketing and Communication Manager at Le Petit Prince Licensing
Based in France

David Jolly has built a career focused on elevating iconic French cultural brands, and today plays a key role in showcasing French heritage on a global scale through his work with Le Petit Prince Licensing. His career includes key positions at Les Editions Albert René, where he managed marketing for Astérix, and Hachette Collections, where he launched successful partwork products and marketing campaigns. Today, he contributes to Le Petit Prince’s international influence by leading partnerships and overseeing the brand’s expansion into vital markets, including China and Brazil, promoting French culture worldwide.

ABHISHEK KUMAR
Head – Design & Brand Assurance at Bradford License India
Based in India

Abhishek is the Head of Design & Brand Assurance at Bradford License India, a premier licensing agency representing global brands in the Indian market. With experience in brand licensing, creative strategy, and fashion collaborations, Abhishek has facilitated 50+ successful partnerships since then across various categories, including fashion & lifestyle, sports, characters & entertainment, and electronics. His portfolio features notable brands such as Marie Claire, Laura Ashley, PepsiCo, MCFC, WWE, Breaking Bad, Green Gold Animation, Compaq, Telefunken, and many others.
Also being a part of an Indian Fashion Trend Forecasting project, Abhishek’s expertise in trend forecasting and creative direction has helped brands align with emerging consumer preferences. His ability to foster partnerships that resonate with diverse audiences has significantly shaped the Indian licensing landscape. Driven by a passion for brand storytelling, Abhishek’s work has contributed to the growth of numerous brands in the Indian market.

WEI JIE SUN
Licensing Director at Alifish
Based in China

After graduating from the Academy of Fine Arts, Wei Jie worked in licensing at galleries and game companies. He joined Alifish, a subsidiary of Alibaba Group, seven years ago and has worked in both the fast-moving consumer goods (FMCG) team and the hardline team. He eventually became the Licensing Director of the hardline team, currently managing the licensing business for a series of IPs including Sanrio, Pokémon, Minions, and Chiikawa in the China region. He has helped numerous brands like Bloks, Toptoy, Razer, Logitech, and OPPO achieve collaborations, managing 200 clients and realizing a GMV of 3 billion RMB.

JOSEPH YAP
Brands & Licensing Manager at BBC Studios
Based in Singapore

Joseph’s licensing journey began at BBC Studios, where he first joined the Asia marketing team and was then given an opportunity to develop a brands and licensing strategy for the region. Working across a portfolio of iconic IP synonymous with the BBC, like Doctor Who, Bluey, Hey Duggee and BBC Earth, Joseph manages each brand’s licensing strategy in different markets across Asia. Joseph’s primary focus has been leading and executing the brand strategy for Bluey in Asia. He manages the brand’s cross-category licensing program across key markets in Southeast Asia, Northeast Asia (excluding Greater China) and South Asia, while supporting the brand’s overall global growth, as one of the leading pre-school brands globally.