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)?
After completing my graphic design studies I joined CTI, a French company specialising in licensed home textiles, as a graphic designer and stylist. With an extensive portfolio of licenses—including Disney, Universal, Warner, Paramount, the French Football Federation, and Paris Saint-Germain—I had the opportunity to create home and beachwear products featuring brands and characters that I had always loved.

What’s a “typical” day in your current position?
I don’t really have a typical day, as my role is very varied! But to sum it up: I arrive at the studio and catch up with the distribution team to coordinate key industry events such as MIFA, MIPCOM, and BLE. I then move on to identifying potential licensing partners for Xilam’s brands before reviewing approvals with our existing partners, whether broadcasters or licensees. I also follow the development of new series and contribute to shaping their brand identity. Finally, I brainstorm with the digital team on ways to promote our brands across social media.

What’s your biggest personal or professional accomplishment?
The little girl I once was always dreamed of working in film and animation. She would be very proud of the person I have become and of the path I have taken. I am also fortunate to work for a French studio whose series were a big part of my childhood. It is a professional achievement but, above all, a deeply personal one.

What are the most significant trends or changes that you’ve seen in the business in recent years?
Definitely the rise of the kidult and nostalgia trends, which has truly reshaped the licensing market across all categories. At Xilam, it has also allowed us to highlight iconic series from a fresh perspective. I am thinking in particular of Oggy and the Cockroaches, which already had a strong children’s audience but resonates especially well with adults, as we prepare to celebrate its 30th anniversary. Another example is Space Goofs, a late-1990s series that remains hugely popular in France and has led to some fantastic partnerships with brands such as Celio, Billes & Co, Label Chaussette, and Uniqlo x Supraw.

What keeps you up at night? What’s your biggest challenge these days?
At Xilam, there are so many different opportunities and projects, which is incredibly stimulating because we are encouraged to explore, experiment, and create. I think my first thoughts are simply: how should I approach this new project? Who will I be working with, and what new talent will I have the opportunity to meet?

In your opinion, what is the top skill every licensing executive should have in order to succeed?
I believe it is essential to remain curious and creative, while continuously analysing trends and monitoring the market to stay inspired.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, or what’s your favorite quote?
“If you can dream it, you can do it.” It is essential for everyone to recognize their own potential, as it is the driving force that encourages us to push our limits and pursue what we truly enjoy.

What is your favorite licensing deal of all time? (It doesn’t have to be one that was signed by you.)
I am a huge fan of all Zara Home’s licensed collections, including DC Comics, Peanuts, Disney, and Pixar. Their creative teams always manage to combine the strength of these iconic brands with the sophistication of current trends, and the result is consistently successful.

If you weren’t in licensing, what would you be doing now?
Probably a creative role in the video game or animation industry.

The last licensed product I bought was…
A Sailor Moon shirt at celio!