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)?
Licensing found me when I made an international move and became a country brand agent, representing globally recognized names like Sanrio, Mattel, Warner Brothers, and more. Working on the brand side taught me how unique each brand’s DNA is and helped me develop the skills to find the right category partners to bring that vision to life. Now, as a licensee, I draw on those experiences to better understand all sides of the licensing process, from brand strategy to product execution. This well-rounded perspective has been invaluable in shaping my career and driving success.

What’s a “typical” day in your current position?
My days often involve connecting with brand partners to strengthen collaborations and identify opportunities for growth, while also reviewing product lines to brainstorm innovative ideas for enhancing our bag and luggage categories. Throughout the day, I engage in meetings with retailers, licensors, or internal teams to strategize on upcoming launches, address feedback, and finalize creative concepts, all while ensuring our designs align with market trends and consumer demands. Whether it’s evaluating prototypes, negotiating contracts, or aligning on marketing plans, every day brings opportunities to innovate and drive business success.

What’s your biggest personal and professional accomplishment?
My biggest personal accomplishment will always be my four children. Having a big family was always my dream, and I never allowed that to hinder my goals. I started as an assistant at Cartoon Network while caring for twin babies at home, determined to never have to choose between motherhood and a career. I once had a female manager tell me that women cannot have it all, but I wholeheartedly disagree. Instead of holding me back, my children inspire me to work harder, proving that with determination and perseverance, you can rise from an assistant to VP and beyond. I’ve always aimed to show my daughters, especially, that it’s possible to pursue your dreams, both personally and professionally, and succeed at both.

What are the most significant trends or changes that you’ve seen in business in recent years?
AI is revolutionizing the consumer products licensing landscape by reshaping how brands connect with consumers and operate. It enhances personalization by analyzing consumer data to predict preferences and tailor product offerings with precision. At the same time, it streamlines operations, automating royalty tracking, contract management, and inventory forecasting. AI also protects intellectual property through advanced counterfeit detection systems and elevates marketing efforts with hyper-targeted campaigns and immersive technologies like augmented reality. By driving innovation, efficiency, and engagement, AI is transforming licensing into a faster, smarter, and more competitive industry.

What keeps you up at night? What’s your biggest challenge these days?
The biggest challenge is navigating the ever-changing landscape of licensing in a world that’s constantly evolving. From adapting to shifts in retail (like the rise of off-price channels and digital platforms such as TikTok Shop and Shein) to staying ahead of consumer trends, the challenge is finding innovative ways to ensure brands remain relevant. Licensing is no longer just about securing a partnership—it’s about understanding how global events, economic pressures, and cultural trends shape consumer behavior.

In your opinion, what is the top skill every licensing executive should have in order to succeed?
The top skill every licensing executive needs is a genuine love for what they do and the ability to cultivate strong, collaborative relationships. As Maya Angelou wisely said, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” This quote perfectly encapsulates the importance of leaving a positive and lasting impression in every interaction. Over the years, so many people on both the licensor and licensee sides have become genuine friends, with relationships that extend beyond our work together. These connections often make all the difference when a brand chooses to collaborate with you over someone else, highlighting the power of authenticity and meaningful partnerships in our industry.

What is the best piece of advice you ever received? Or what is your favorite quote?
My favorite quote is, “Everyone is replaceable, but not everyone is easily replaced.” This resonates deeply with me because while it’s true that no one is indispensable, the heart, dedication, and individuality each person brings to their role can never be perfectly replicated. It’s a reminder to lead with passion and authenticity, knowing that what sets you apart is your unique approach and the impact you make on those around you.

What is your favorite licensing deal of all time? (It doesn’t have to be one that was signed by you.)
I’ve been fortunate to be part of some incredible licensing deals, but one of my favorites has to be a Smurfs and Nestlé ice cream collaboration I worked on while living abroad. The ice cream was cleverly shaped like a mushroom, and each unit included a miniature collectible Smurf figurine, sparking a frenzy among kids who were eager to collect them all. Watching how this fun and creative partnership captured the imaginations of so many was a reminder of the magic that thoughtful licensing deals can create.

If you weren’t in licensing, what would you be doing now?
If I weren’t in licensing, I imagine I’d be on the studio side, possibly as a television writer. I’ve always dreamed of creating worlds, developing characters, and telling stories. The idea of building something from the ground up—whether it’s a single episode or an entire series—and seeing it come to life on screen has always fascinated me. Much like licensing, television writing blends imagination with strategy, and the idea of contributing to a narrative that resonates with people is inspiring.