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 route into licensing was not direct. I started my career in product development and then quickly expanded into merchandising and buying—first on the brand side, then on the retailer side. This experience on different sides of the business enables me to work effectively with cross-functional teams and retailers to build strong and successful brands in the licensing model.

What’s a “typical” day in your current position?
I start strong in the morning, organizing priorities and tackling the biggest projects before the rush of meetings and emails begin. A typical day includes emails, internal and external meetings, reviewing financials, and building and executing strategy.

What’s your biggest personal or professional accomplishment?
This has been an exciting year for me professionally as the Brand Director for Motherhood®, the leading maternity and postpartum brand and community. We’ve relaunched Motherhood® with new branding, returned to brick-and-mortar at Kohl’s, and launched our first magazine, Motherhood Maternity®. It’s meaningful to lead a brand that has a mission of supporting women.

What are the most significant trends or changes that you’ve seen in the business in recent years?
The shift to a licensing model, and the importance of the licensing model. I am thankful to work for Marquee Brands, a leader in this space.

What keeps you up at night? What’s your biggest challenge these days?
I try not to be kept up so I can hit it hard early in the morning when I’m sharpest. Knowing that all challenges can be surmounted is empowering.

In your opinion, what is the top skill every licensing executive should have in order to succeed?
You need to establish best practices to become an expert in your brand, regardless of the sector or brand. You must become an expert and immerse yourself.

 What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, or what’s your favorite quote?
Channel challenges into motivation and drive.

What is your favorite licensing deal of all time? (It doesn’t have to be one that was signed by you.)
The best is yet to come! I’m excited to see what’s to come for 2025.