The global licensing community is powered by an incredible group of professionals whose diverse backgrounds and creative energy drive innovation and excellence. Each week we profile one of these professionals in this ongoing series.

How did you get into licensing (or how did licensing find you)?
In my 20s, I was looking for a marketing role where I could use my bilingual skills, and I came across a posting on Monster.com—back before LinkedIn—for a LatAm licensing Coordinator role at Discovery Channel. I walked into the interview not really knowing what licensing was, but I was intrigued when they described working with manufacturers across a wide range of categories to bring real-world content to life through products. That idea immediately clicked for me. I was hooked pretty quickly. In fact, my first week on the job included attending Licensing Expo, where I got to see firsthand how brands extend into products and experiences. That was the moment it all came together—and I’ve been in the space ever since.

What’s a “typical” day in your current position?
My days typically start early since I’m connecting with colleagues and partners around the world. Being part of a global organization, a big focus is staying aligned—planning together, sharing insights, and scaling opportunities across markets. I spend a good portion of my day in conversations, which is something I really enjoy. I make it a priority to connect with partners regularly to stay close to the business and identify new opportunities. As a leader, I’m also very intentional about staying connected with my team—not just my direct reports, but the broader team as well. We spend time reviewing progress against our goals and strategy, and I focus on how I can advocate for the business while making sure the team has the insights, support, and tools they need to succeed.

What’s your biggest personal or professional accomplishment?
My greatest accomplishment is raising my twins. They’re healthy, curious, confident, and kind—and watching them grow into who they are has been incredibly rewarding. At 16, they’re starting to figure out what matters to them and who they want to become. One moment that really stayed with me was when my daughter recently told me she sees how much I love what I do, and that she hopes to find something that brings her that same sense of joy. That meant everything to me.

What are the most significant trends or changes that you’ve seen in the business in recent years?
Nostalgia continues to be one of the most powerful forces in licensing, but it’s evolved. It’s no longer just about bringing something back; it’s about reintroducing brands in ways that feel authentic and relevant to how fans engage today. That means balancing heritage with new storytelling, new formats, and new ways to connect. At the same time, we’re seeing a clear shift toward more elevated collaborations and experience-driven extensions. Consumers are looking for deeper engagement, whether that’s through premium product, meaningful partnerships or immersive brand moments that go beyond traditional merchandising. The TRANSFORMERS brand is a strong example of this evolution. From innovative collaborations like our Hot Wheels x TRANSFORMERS converting figures, which blend two iconic play patterns, to major anniversary programs like the 40th celebration of THE TRANSFORMERS: THE MOVIE, we’re creating new ways for fans to connect with the brand. Add to that a strong lineup from licensees like Jada Toys, Super7, Robosen, Threezero, and more, and you have a franchise that continues to evolve while staying true to its roots.

What keeps you up at night? What’s your biggest challenge these days?
One of my biggest challenges is staying closely connected to culture—keeping a pulse on what’s relevant, what’s resonating, and what’s next. It takes ongoing effort and attention, and finding that time can be difficult. I do have a built-in advantage, though—my teenagers help keep me current on what’s trending, especially on TikTok.

In your opinion, what is the top skill every licensing executive should have in order to succeed?
Great licensing starts with real relationships. At the end of the day, this business is about aligning on a shared vision, understanding the audience, and growing a brand in ways that feel authentic and meaningful. Beyond that, adaptability is critical. The landscape moves quickly, and the most effective leaders are the ones who can balance long-term brand stewardship with the ability to act on what’s happening in culture right now. In many ways, licensing executives are storytellers. You’re constantly thinking about how a brand shows up across different categories and touchpoints, and how each of those moments connects back to a bigger narrative.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, or what’s your favorite quote?
The best advice I’ve ever received is to never stop learning. It’s a mindset that’s helped me stay curious, adapt to change, and continue growing both personally and professionally.

What is your favorite licensing deal of all time? (It doesn’t have to be one that was signed by you.)
I’ve had the opportunity to work across a variety of categories, but experiential licensing programs have always been some of my favorites. Early in my career, I launched a traveling museum exhibition inspired by one of my favorite Discovery Channel shows. Seeing kids engage with the experience—the excitement it sparked and the learning it inspired—was incredibly rewarding.

If you weren’t in licensing, what would you be doing now?
If I weren’t in licensing, I’d probably be a horticulturist or a dedicated gardener. I love getting my hands in the soil, growing my own food, and nurturing plants. Watching something grow from start to finish is incredibly fulfilling, and I count down to spring every year so I can be back in my garden.

The last licensed product I bought was…
A Peanuts t-shirt for my husband who loves Charlie Brown and his friends.