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Desk Details: Ari Freedman, Vice President of Licensing at Surge Brands

Desk Details: Ari Freedman, Vice President of Licensing at Surge Brands image

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?
We’re chasing the sun all day, so I operate on limited sleep! My day usually begins around 4:30 AM. Every day is packed with activity, and one day bleeds into the next. I’m conducting business across almost every time zone, so I often wish I could stretch a 24-hour day into 30 hours or more. Monday to Friday doesn’t really exist for me—clients and licensing partners reach out any time, on any day. It’s incredibly exciting, and the energy is totally addictive.

What’s one item you always need on your desk?
My phone, no question about it.

What unique skill or characteristic do you bring to your team?
My boundless energy and passion for developing new, exciting consumer products. I’m always focused on pushing forward, no matter what.

What is something you learned at a previous job that prepared you for your current role?
There are no shortcuts to success. It’s all about putting in the work, staying focused, and embracing the idea that failure is simply a stepping stone. If something doesn’t work, learn from it, get over the disappointment, and keep moving forward.

What is your favorite aspect of your current role?
Signing new clients and watching exciting new products come to life—it’s incredibly rewarding to be part of that process.

What is one thing you would change about the licensing industry?
I’d love to see more lawyers who truly understand the ins and outs of launching a licensed product. It’s so important to have that expertise to help bring a product to market successfully and drive growth.

If you had an extra hour in your workday, how would you use it?
I’d book more meetings to connect with clients and partners—it’s always about building those relationships and driving new opportunities.

What is one thing you need to do every day to feel accomplished?
Close at least one new deal. Every day is a new chance to make progress!

Are you a carry-on or checked bag traveler?
Definitely carry-on. There’s no time to waste waiting for bags at the carousel!

What do you always have in your suitcase on a work trip?
Nike SBs and a stack of black t-shirts—keeps things simple.

If you weren’t in licensing, what would you be doing?
Building a restaurant chain. I am a major league foodie.

What advice would you give to yourself 10 years ago?
Wake up earlier and work harder. Sleep is a waste of valuable time. There’s so much opportunity out there, and you never know where a single meeting or deal might lead you.

What are you most excited about moving forward?
Creating lasting success for both my clients and my company, building strong foundations that will thrive for years to come.

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