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)?
Growing up, I loved watching TV shows and was always so intrigued by the food in the shows, like Homer Simpson’s Pink Doughnut, SpongeBob’s Krabby Patty, Popeye’s Spinach, and more. These were things I imagined tasting but never actually could, which drove my passion for immersing consumers into the worlds and flavors of their favorite characters.

What’s a “typical” day in your current position?
Each day is different but usually consists of working on new products, selling existing products, and working on marketing strategies.

What’s your biggest personal or professional accomplishment?
Running this business—we’re competing against giants and disrupting an industry that hasn’t been changed in over 100 years. In just our first year, we are already one of the fastest growing gum brands and are turning heads.

What are the most significant trends or changes that you’ve seen in the business in recent years?
The reason we started this was because of the lack of innovation in this space, which we saw as a huge opportunity. We’re taking a brand-first approach by building a community and immersing consumers into our brand, rather than just trying to sell another product.

What keeps you up at night? What’s your biggest challenge these days?
The biggest challenge is that we’re doing something that the industry hasn’t seen before and there is no roadmap to follow.

In your opinion, what is the top skill every licensing executive should have in order to succeed?
Every licensing executive should have the creativity to bring a product to life and give the consumer what they didn’t know that they needed.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, or what’s your favorite quote?
“Innovation distinguishes between a leader and a follower” – Steve Jobs

What is your favorite licensing deal of all time? (It doesn’t have to be one that was signed by you.)
Growing up, I used to love the Pokémon Monopoly game.

If you weren’t in licensing, what would you be doing now?
Continuing to build our own IP as we are currently working on that alongside our licensing partnerships.

The last licensed product I bought was…
A Buffalo Bills sweater.