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)?
Whilst at university in Canada, licensing was actually part of a module within my marketing degree, so I had a bit of an inside scoop on what the industry meant and, to me, it just made sense. I accepted a role at The Beanstalk Group (where one of their clients was referenced in my university marketing textbook as a case study!) and my licensing fate was forever sealed. Starting off as a licensing agent gave me an excellent foundation into this very special industry, where I have since explored roles as both a licensee and a licensor.

What’s a “typical” day in your current position?
There is no such thing as a typical day in licensing, which is why I love it so much! One day I might be working on multi-territory toy and gifting deals and the next I could be working with a boutique brand on an apparel collaboration. My role is truly international so I’m usually speaking with our agents in Australia and Asia in the morning, meeting with European partners during the day, and then Zooming with North American partners in the evening. One day I could be evaluating the appointment of a new agent in an emerging market and then I could be hunting for a direct new licensee to fill a product category gap. With my time in between, I work with my U.K. colleagues to maximise global opportunities, catch up with the Penguin Ventures Creative Team on their latest product development, and check in regularly with my many direct licensees around the world. Wait a second…is this why I’m so tired all the time?

What’s your biggest personal or professional accomplishment?
One of my most significant personal accomplishments has been moving from Montreal, Canada to London, England and leaving behind all that I knew. I spent two summers in London whilst at university in Canada, and I knew London was the place I needed to be long term. After graduating, I moved to London with no job, no place to live, questionable fashion choices, and I only knew two people. It was a huge risk, but I have been fortunate to have created a beautiful life in London. I met my husband here, found an industry I adore, have been able to travel the world, and had experiences that only a city like London can offer.

I have had some wonderful successes in my professional career, but one of my most recent accomplishments has been growing our Peter Rabbit business in North America in 2022 by 65%. After taking the brand in house in 2020 and managing it directly, it has been a wonderful experience to be able to bring our much-loved Peter Rabbit to fans in additional markets.

What are the most significant trends or changes that you’ve seen in the business in recent years?
There has been a real revival of heritage, classic, evergreen brands. I am seeing parents purchase classic brands as gifts for their children but also wishing to revisit and embrace these IPs for themselves. From toys and homewares to apparel and gifting, these brands are having a real moment, appealing to every member of the family. Throughout the pandemic the Penguin Ventures portfolio—which includes Flower Fairies, Spot, and Peter Rabbit—inspired these nostalgic purchases, reminding fans of happier times.

In your opinion, what is the top skill every licensing executive should have in order to succeed?
I would say a combination of patience, an entrepreneurial flair, creativity, empathy, and open-mindedness are the skills I’m most proud of and rely on. We can’t be too quick to dismiss opportunities in licensing—small deals can turn into large deals, so one must always be thinking of the big picture. 

What is your favorite licensing deal of all time? (It doesn’t have to be one that was signed by you.)
I’ve done some fabulous deals during my time in licensing, but one of my most recent favourites was a multi-year deal I did with Cadbury Mondelez for Peter Rabbit Easter confectionery, which, to me, was a perfect pairing of two iconic British brands. Cadbury have been incredibly supportive of Peter Rabbit and have secured wonderful placement at retail and executed a beautiful (and delicious) chocolate collection.

If you weren’t in licensing, what would you be doing now?
I would either be a professional golfer or an actress (because they go so well together).