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?
I start my day at 4:30 am. This helps me catch up with teams in different time zones and I kick off with calls around 5 am. To keep things on track, I have a to-do list that I check and update every morning. This early start also gives me a chance to go through my emails and sort out any urgent matters. Being up and working while it’s still quiet helps me get a lot done without distractions.

What’s one item you always need on your desk?
I always keep a notepad next to my laptop on my desk. It’s super handy for writing down quick thoughts, to-do items, or key details. Having it within arm’s reach helps me keep things in order and ensure I don’t forget any important bits throughout my day.

What unique skill or characteristic do you bring to your team?
One skill I’m particularly proud of is my ability to actively listen. Whether it’s team members or our clients, I make it a point to genuinely hear out what they have to say. This approach not only helps me understand various viewpoints but also ensures that both our team and clients feel valued. By truly listening, we foster better collaboration and are able to create solutions that cater to everyone’s needs.

What is something you learned at a previous job that prepared you for your current role?
At a past job, I witnessed firsthand the rapid shifts in market trends, especially during the Covid era. It was a big lesson on the importance of staying adaptable and proactive. Rather than just relying on old methods, I realized it’s crucial to be flexible and update our approach based on current market conditions. Today, this experience is invaluable. It helps me keep my current team agile, ensuring we’re always aligned with market dynamics and poised to seize new opportunities.

What is your favorite aspect of your current role?
My favorite aspect of being a co-founder and CEO of a growing licensing agency in the Middle East is the unique global and local blend that I encounter daily. I get to engage with a wide range of global brands, each with its distinct identity and values. At the same time, I’m immersed in the rich and diverse culture of the Middle East, which is a beautiful mix of age-old traditions and modern innovations. It’s a rewarding challenge to seamlessly blend these global brands with our regional essence, ensuring they resonate and succeed in our market. This role is a continuous journey of learning. It emphasizes the importance of staying adaptable and understanding, especially in our interconnected global landscape.

If you had an extra hour in your workday, how would you use it?
If I had an extra hour in my workday, I’d spend it with my family. Balancing work and family can be challenging, so any extra time I can get, I’d like to invest in my loved ones. They are my foundation and source of strength.

What is one thing you need to do every day to feel accomplished?
One thing I need to do every day to feel accomplished is complete tasks on my to-do list. Ticking them off gives me a clear sense of progress and ensures I’m on track.

Are you a carry-on or checked bag traveler?
I always opt for a carry-on when travelling. It embodies my preference for efficiency and agility, allowing me to transition swiftly from the plane to my next destination. Plus, avoiding the wait for a checked bag saves valuable time.

What do you always have in your suitcase on a work trip?
Whenever I pack, my must-haves are my laptop, earphones, notebook, and some snacks.

If you weren’t in licensing, what would you be doing?
If I weren’t in the licensing industry, I’d likely be exploring the globe as an anthropology researcher. I’ve always been captivated by the richness of diverse cultures, and the idea of studying them up close and sharing my discoveries through writing truly resonates with me.

What advice would you give to yourself 10 years ago?
I’d tell my younger self to step out of the comfort zone of a 9-to-5 job. Pursue your passion, take the leap into entrepreneurship, and relish the growth that comes from steering your own ship.

What are you most excited about moving forward?
Being able to travel freely again. After enduring the pandemic for years, it’s truly liberating to travel without lots of restrictions and complications.