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?
Reading emails, a little scan of @junkbanter, and a power walk.

What’s one item you always need on your desk?
My mug that says, “You’re on Mute.”

What unique skill or characteristic do you bring to your team?
I focus on big ideas and trends that will drive the business forward. I think about how we can push boundaries for our clients and in the industry.

What is something you learned at a previous job that prepared you for your current role?
In 1999, my internet startup burned through $5 million in one year. I learned to ALWAYS watch expenses. This philosophy got Brand Central through the dotcom bust of 2000, the financial crisis of 2008, and the Covid pandemic without any layoffs.

What is your favorite aspect of your current role?
I am so proud of the platform we have built over 22 years with the tools and expertise to create our own brands, buy brands, launch new businesses, and provide our clients with endless possibilities.

If you had an extra hour in your workday, how would you use it?
I would do more business development because it’s never enough.

What is one thing you need to do every day to feel accomplished?
I am laser focused on client service. Every day I think about each client and want to feel assured their licensing business is thriving.

Are you a carry-on or checked bag traveler?
Definitely a checked bag traveler. I believe in contingencies, so I stuff everything into my checked bag.

What do you always have in your suitcase on a work trip?
Dongles, my iPad and laptop, and I always need a roll of butter rum Lifesavers.

If you weren’t in licensing, what would you be doing?
I have been working on gun violence prevention for the last 40 years. If I were not in licensing, I would spend more time fighting on a national level for sensible gun reform legislation.

What advice would you give to yourself 10 years ago?
“Time kills all deals” and “Timing is everything.”

What are you most excited about in 2023?
I am excited to see all the new products we worked on last year hit the retail shelves. We have almost 100 new SKUs launching with our food clients, from Mars Wrigley and Kraft Heinz to Tapatio and Bimbo. Additionally, our new trend service called the “Lightening Reports,” together with The Licensing Letter, is going to be a new industry staple and our manufacturer rep business has doubled in the past year.