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 at Crayola! I had been in roles that were focused on either new business development or product management and equally enjoyed them. I wanted something that was a mix of both and was able to find that in the wonderful world of licensing.

What’s a “typical” day in your current position?
No two days are alike! My group is building the consumer products business around the world and working with a mix of global partners, local partners, clubs, and cross functional groups in a multitude of markets. I can say there’s a lot of virtual collaboration and planning across time zones happening!

What’s your biggest personal or professional accomplishment?
My biggest personal accomplishment is my daughter (proud mom here!). I have watched her mature into a talented, intelligent young woman who exudes incredible kindness—the kind that warms you when you need it the most. On a professional level, I have developed a unique skillset of expanding iconic U.S. brands outside of the U.S. This requires a deep knowledge of the international landscape and localized consumer behaviors. I pride myself on being able to translate those insights into actionable strategies that build global brands.

What are the most significant trends or changes that you’ve seen in the business in recent years?
The way consumers shop! Gen Z and now Gen Alpha have changed not just how products are purchased (umm TikTok shop anyone?) but also how products are discovered. Through social media, the world has become more global but, ironically, smaller—with trends moving at the speed of lightning. This makes the ability to react quickly, and also brand reputation, so important!

What keeps you up at night? What’s your biggest challenge these days?
The above, especially as it relates to fashion strategy, which is a key category for most of us in licensing. You need to be 10 steps ahead at all times. 10 quick steps!

In your opinion, what is the top skill every licensing executive should have in order to succeed?
The ability to influence. Licensing is often the group thinking outside the box and trying new things.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, or what’s your favorite quote?
The best piece of advice is, “You can’t do what you did to get here, to get there.” My favorite quote is, “Life begins when you step outside your comfort zone. Keep pushing boundaries.”

What is your favorite licensing deal of all time? (It doesn’t have to be one that was signed by you.)
I always love creative food mashups, especially ones that feature Girl Scout cookies! Taking iconic flavors that represent something positive and letting me do things like put it in my coffee makes me smile.

If you weren’t in licensing, what would you be doing now?
Running a vineyard in Greece. We can all dream, right?

The last licensed product I bought was…
Saint Leo University gear!