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)?
My background is in fashion licensing, which I honed while living in New York City. After relocating to Florida in 2018 I began exploring new opportunities, aided by the shift to remote work. This journey led me to connect with ARTiSTORY, Yizan, and the incredible team I’ve been collaborating with for almost two years. When I came across the listing for this position, it immediately felt like the right fit. It was one of those moments where trusting my gut led me down the right path—a reminder that sometimes, following your instincts is key.

What’s a “typical” day in your current position?
In this role, “typical” doesn’t exist, which is one of the many reasons I love what I do. I work closely with ARTiSTORY’s founder and CEO, Yizan He, with whom I connect daily. His support has been invaluable as we collaborate on various aspects of the business.

I’m actively involved in our global business development efforts, where I identify key target licensees for our IP clients, work closely with IP owners, develop sales pitch decks with the creative team, and deliver sales presentations. I also negotiate and execute licensing agreements, manage the product approval process, and coordinate marketing initiatives in collaboration with IP owners and licensee partners. Additionally, I handle CRM management and other essential tasks.

I serve as Yizan’s sounding board, taking the lead in coordinating business development strategies, and contributing to the overall operations of the company. Working with a global team and engaging in creative problem-solving every day is something I truly value.

What’s your biggest personal or professional accomplishment?
My biggest accomplishment traces back to 2013, which set the stage for both my personal and professional growth. I have a Bachelor of Science from Penn State University and continued my studies in Speech Pathology at the University of Pittsburgh. While I found joy in helping others and had a passion for biology, I realized that it wasn’t an environment where I would thrive. When I had a hospital clinic during my first semester, I was more concerned with making a lab coat stylish and spent my free time on Pinterest and watching Fashion Runway. The decision to take a leave of absence and pursue a fashion career in NYC was significant. I interviewed for and was offered an internship at Helmut Lang. After taking my finals, I moved out of my apartment in Pittsburgh and relocated to New York. None of my subsequent professional achievements would have been possible if I hadn’t taken that leap of faith.

What are the most significant trends or changes that you’ve seen in the business in recent years?
Collaboration has become the norm as companies seek to differentiate themselves in a crowded market. While movies, TV shows, and characters are popular choices, there’s a timelessness and longevity in art and culture collaborations. That’s why we’ve seen such growth in this area.

I’m especially pleased with the increasing focus on sustainability and ethical practices. Many companies now have missions centered around social responsibility, whether it’s through charitable donations or a focus on environmental impact. Climate change is real, and the fashion industry is a significant way we can make a difference. I’m grateful to work with like-minded companies and while engaging with art, art trends, and museums.

What keeps you up at night? What’s your biggest challenge these days?
My biggest challenge? Working remotely has its benefits, but it can also be isolating. Some days, the only reason I leave the house is to walk the dogs. I’ve realized the importance of taking the initiative to stay active and engaged. I’ve started taking golf lessons, enjoying aerial silks classes, joined a social bowling league, became a certified dog trainer, and make time for yoga and relaxing pool days when possible. It’s all about finding the right balance.

In your opinion, what is the top skill every licensing executive should have in order to succeed?
The ability to learn continuously and the openness to learn from everyone around you is crucial in this ever-evolving industry. I’ve personally learned a great deal from my team.

Yizan brings decades of experience in licensing and offers creative solutions and flexible thinking that keep our approach fresh. Han Jing, ARTiSTORY’s Founder & Managing Director, has had incredible success closing deals globally and always asks insightful questions that challenge me to think deeper. Ben Qin, our Deputy Head of Creative, is an amazing collaborator with a talent for producing beautiful presentations and innovative concepts. Judith Mathers, our agent in London, has provided invaluable insight into museum collaborations and fine arts from her experience at the National Gallery. Lapkeng Wong, Head of Asia Pacific, has extensive experience in the licensing industry and offers valuable business and negotiation insights.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, or what’s your favorite quote?
One of my favorite quotes from Brené Brown is, “What we are matters, but who we are matters more.” While I find Brené Brown incredibly inspiring, this quote, in particular, resonates with me and aligns with the advice I’ve received to treat everyone with respect, no matter their position.

What is your favorite licensing deal of all time? (It doesn’t have to be one that was signed by you.)
The original licensing deal between Elsa Schiaparelli and Salvador Dalí for the infamous Lobster Telephone is one of my favorites—it set the stage for all future licensing deals. Especially since I’m working with Dali’s artwork on current projects, this collaboration been a great source of inspiration.

If you weren’t in licensing, what would you be doing now?
I would be working in the fashion industry. What I love about my current role is that I still get to collaborate with fashion executives, but my work extends beyond just fashion. Fashion is a key form of expression for me and an integral part of my daily life. As long as my job involves creative thinking and versatility, I’m fulfilled.

The last licensed product I bought was…
A Tervis water bottle featuring the Tampa Bay Buccaneers—I have to represent! I can even hear the crowd at the games from my house.