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)?
Similar to many in our field, licensing found me! After graduating from college, I took a temporary position at Universal Orlando Resort on a team called “Licensed Partners,” not fully knowing what it entailed. What was originally a three-month gig turned into a full-time role and I haven’t left the field since!

What’s a “typical” day in your current position?
One thing I love about my job (and this industry) is that there is no “typical” day. Every day I get to meet new people and companies, explore innovative licensing opportunities, and work through different challenges, which makes showing up to work so exciting and rewarding.

What’s your biggest personal and professional accomplishment?
Living in New York City out of college and being able to experience such a diverse, vibrant, challenging city in my 20s is something that I will cherish forever and has truly shaped who I am today, both professionally and personally. The energy and people there are unmatched, including the licensing community! 

What are the most significant trends or changes that you’ve seen in the business in recent years?
I work mostly in the CPG space, so some trends I’m seeing are innovative products for the home that combat germs and odor (beyond household cleaning supplies), especially post-COVID. Recently, I saw that Mr. Clean partnered with the toilet seat manufacturer Bemis to launch anti-microbial toilet seats, which I thought was really relevant and unique.

What is the best piece of advice you ever received or what is your favorite quote?
The best piece of advice I’ve received is that “comparison is the thief of joy.” This saying has helped me refrain from comparing myself and my achievements to those around me, which often ends up diminishing one’s accomplishments and happiness. It’s important to remember that everyone is on their own life path and you have to focus on your joy and do what makes you happy!

What is your favorite licensing deal of all time? (It doesn’t have to be one that was signed by you.)
In Japan, Febreze has done some really unique licensing partnerships, extending their anti-bacterial/odor-fighting equities into categories like wallpaper, car accessories, and even socks, which I think is so cool and different from products found in the U.S. 

If you weren’t in licensing, what would you be doing now?
If I weren’t in licensing, I would be a chef! I absolutely love cooking and would love the chance to someday go to cooking school somewhere like France or Italy (hence the photo)!