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)?
In 1997 I became an assistant buyer for a retail chain and started buying licensed tees.

What’s a “typical” day in your current position?
Product reviews, product reviews, and more product reviews! I review concepts to ensure that either our, or our partners visions, are being executed. Of course, I have various meetings throughout the day (licensor meetings, retailer meetings, strategy meetings, etc.) but I try my best to focus on product as much as possible.

What’s your biggest personal or professional accomplishment?
The biggest accomplishment is to be in the position I am today—working to help build and grow the Loungefly brand.

What are the most significant trends or changes that you’ve seen in the business in recent years?
Consolidation of the industry—either studios consolidating or licensees consolidating. Another large trend has been the movement towards DTC.

What keeps you up at night? What’s your biggest challenge these days?
Always wanting to innovate and create something new in the industry.

In your opinion, what is the top skill every licensing executive should have in order to succeed?
Always be fair and honest. It resonates with everyone. As a licensing executive, you always want to be the first call someone makes. How you treat people in this industry gets around quickly.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, or what’s your favorite quote?
Never burn a bridge in licensing. You never know who you will work with or work for in the future.

What is your favorite licensing deal of all time? (It doesn’t have to be one that was signed by you.)
In a past role for an apparel company, I oversaw all licensing. I was pitched Despicable Me and I only saw one picture of a minion and signed on as the exclusive apparel partner. I was questioned by all of the sales team and upper management. I told them all, “Little yellow things sell!” I made the right decision.

If you weren’t in licensing, what would you be doing now?
I would still be in the fashion business somewhere.