Desk Details: Johnny Abi Habib, VP of Product Management & Solutions Consulting at FADEL
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 day starts early and on purpose. I like to hit the gym first, it clears my head and sets the tone for a productive day. After a healthy breakfast, I map out my tasks using time‑boxing so I can make the most of my time. Then it’s off to the office, where I stay focused and hands-on throughout the day. That rhythm keeps me energized and on track.
What’s one item you always need on your desk?
A pen and paper—definitely old school, but it works for me. Writing things down helps me remember them better, and there’s something genuinely satisfying about striking through a task once it’s done.
What unique skill or characteristic do you bring to your team?
I bring an innovation‑driven mindset. I’m always looking for ways to make the product better and optimize workflows, even beyond my immediate department. I like challenging the status quo, but I do it with a positive attitude and a sense of humor. I believe teams do their best work when creativity and fun are part of the culture.
What is something you learned at a previous job that prepared you for your current role?
Patience was a big lesson for me. I learned that things don’t happen instantly; real results come from showing up every day, staying focused, and trusting the process even when progress feels slow.
What is your favorite aspect of your current role?
Running both product management and solutions consulting gives me the best of both worlds. I especially enjoy meeting new prospects and businesses to understand their needs and explore how our solution can add value. Every discussion brings a new challenge and a new learning opportunity, which keeps the role exciting and fulfilling.
What is one thing you would change about the licensing industry?
Greater standardization! Across license management, royalty calculations, and reporting, there’s still a lot of fragmentation between companies and industries. More standardized frameworks would improve transparency, reduce complexity, and allow licensors and licensees to focus more on growth and collaboration rather than administration.
If you had an extra hour in your workday, how would you use it?
I’d use it for research and development. With the rapid growth of AI, staying current and curious is key to continuing to innovate and improve.
What is one thing you need to do every day to feel accomplished?
Staying on track with my daily objectives. I believe each day should close with its tasks completed, rather than carried over, because the next day brings new priorities. Finishing what I set out to do gives me a strong sense of progress and accomplishment.
Are you a carry-on or checked bag traveler?
Definitely a carry‑on traveler when I can. I like having everything I need with me and being able to move quickly, with no waiting at baggage claim. It’s efficient and very much my style.
What do you always have in your suitcase on a work trip?
Business essentials first—pants, shirts, and a blazer—plus a few casual pieces. I believe looking sharp in a meeting makes a difference, and I like being ready for any setting the trip brings.
If you weren’t in licensing, what would you be doing?
Most likely I would still be in telecom, given my engineering background. But if I took a completely different path, I’d love to run a burger joint and serve my own burgers—which are really good, by the way! It’s still about creating something great, just in a different way.
What advice would you give to yourself 10 years ago?
I’d tell myself not to overthink everything. Early on, I spent a lot of time analyzing every decision instead of trusting my judgment. With experience, I’ve learned that progress comes from taking action, learning along the way, and refining as you go.
What are you most excited about moving forward?
I’m excited about the direction we’re taking as a company and how the product continues to evolve. With the speed at which the industry is moving, staying ahead requires constant innovation and adaptability. Being part of that momentum and consistently bringing value to customers and prospects is truly motivating.