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’re profiling one of these professionals in this ongoing series.

How did you get into licensing (or how did licensing find you)?
I began my career in feature film but growth within marketing was limited at the time due to low turnover, so I decided to seek opportunity elsewhere. I ended up taking a step back and securing an assistant role at Entertainment Rights/Classic Media, which eventually became part of DreamWorks Animation. I learned almost everything I know about the licensing business and best practices during my time there, surrounded by an amazing team of leaders and colleagues who both challenged me and encouraged me to learn and grow. Even though many of us have moved on to other roles in other organizations around the country, I still consult them regularly when I need guidance.

What’s your biggest personal and professional accomplishment?
Personally, it’s a tie between completing the four-day trek to Machu Picchu and finishing the NYC Triathlon. Professionally, I am very proud to have planned and executed the “Love Your Heart” campaign for Betty Boop’s 90th Anniversary in 2020, which included collaboration with Betsey Johnson, who designed a limited-edition tee in support of women’s heart health; Woman’s Day magazine; the Red Dress Awards; and the Empire State Building, which honored the occasion with a special lighting ceremony.

In your opinion, what is the top skill every licensing executive should have in order to succeed?
Communication. You can’t know everything or everyone, so it’s important to have a strong network you can rely on.

What is the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, or what is your favorite quote?
“You get out what you put in.” Meaning the more of yourself (time/effort) that you dedicate to something (a project, an organization, an event, a team, etc.), the more rewarding it will become.

What is your favorite licensing deal of all time? (It doesn’t have to be one that was signed by you.)
Popeye’s alignment with The SeaCleaners. It’s rewarding to have a brand under my management that is actively helping to change our world for the better. This partnership only continues to grow as the team at King Features brings on new collaborative partners, like Von Dutch, who are demonstrating their dedication to Popeye’s ocean cleanup mission by donating a portion of sales back to The SeaCleaners organization.

If you weren’t in licensing, what would you be doing now?
Marketing/promotion for a changemaker organization focused on eco-friendly/sustainable practice or opening my own native plant gardening center. I developed a bit of a green thumb during the pandemic, and I think I’d enjoy transforming my passion project into a business.