The global licensing community is powered by an incredible group of professionals whose diverse backgrounds and creative energy drive innovation and excellence. We profile one of these professionals each week, and in this special edition of the People Profile series we are introducing one of the 2024 Rising Stars Award recipients to shine a spotlight on their success.

How did you get into licensing (or how did licensing find you)?
Licensing found me through my passion for creative strategy in branding. My background in fashion design gave me a unique perspective on how brands can create meaningful connections with consumers. I found that licensing was the perfect avenue to bring those creative concepts to life in tangible products and experiences, which made the transition into licensing feel natural and exciting.

What’s a “typical” day in your current position?
A typical day involves a mix of creative and strategic tasks, from brainstorming new brand extensions to refining style guides and ensuring brand alignment. I work closely with partners to explore new licensing opportunities, manage ongoing projects, and collaborate with my team on marketing initiatives. Every day brings a fresh perspective and new ideas to keep our partnerships innovative and relevant.

What’s your biggest personal or professional accomplishment?
Being named a Global Rising Star 2024 by Licensing International is a proud moment for me. It’s a recognition that highlights my contributions to the licensing industry and the impact of my work. Professionally, it’s a milestone that motivates me to push boundaries and set new standards in brand licensing.

What are the most significant trends or changes that you’ve seen in the business in recent years?
The shift towards experiential and digital brand extensions has been transformative. Consumers today want immersive, memorable interactions with brands, whether through pop-up experiences, branded cafes, or digital platforms. This trend is reshaping how we approach brand licensing, pushing us to think beyond traditional product categories and explore new touch points.

What keeps you up at night? What’s your biggest challenge these days?
One of my biggest challenges is balancing creative ambition with practical execution. Licensing offers boundless opportunities, but ensuring that each partnership aligns seamlessly with the brand’s core values while being viable for our partners is a constant balancing act.

In your opinion, what is the top skill every licensing executive should have in order to succeed?
Adaptability. Licensing is a dynamic field where trends and consumer expectations evolve rapidly. Being able to pivot, embrace change, and quickly identify new opportunities is essential for long-term success.

What’s the best piece of advice you’ve ever received, or what’s your favorite quote?
“Creativity is intelligence having fun.” This reminder always inspires me to approach challenges with a playful yet thoughtful mindset, especially when working on brand extensions that require both insight and originality.

What is your favorite licensing deal of all time?
I’ve always admired the collaboration between LEGO and major franchises like Star Wars and Harry Potter. It’s an amazing example of how two strong brands can come together to create something that excites fans, expands their audience, and adds to their brand story.

If you weren’t in licensing, what would you be doing now?
I would likely be in a creative role in fashion or brand strategy, possibly designing experiences that connect consumers with brands in new ways. My passion for creative storytelling would be at the center of whatever I pursued.

The last licensed product I bought was…
A Gojo Satoru printed loose-fit t-shirt from the popular Japanese anime and manga series Jujutsu Kaisen. It’s a perfect blend of my appreciation for anime culture and how licensing brings iconic characters like Gojo into everyday fashion.

What does it mean to you to be named a Rising Star?
To be named a Rising Star is an incredible honor and a meaningful milestone in my journey. It’s a recognition of my efforts and passion for the licensing industry, as well as the opportunities I’ve had to contribute to impactful projects. This accolade motivates me to continue pushing boundaries, fostering creativity, and making a positive impact in the industry. It’s also a reminder of the support and guidance I’ve received from mentors, colleagues, and collaborators along the way.

The Rising Star Awards recognize the next generation of leaders around the world for their commitment, passion, and contributions to their company and the licensing industry. This year’s Rising Stars were recognized and celebrated at the Hall of Fame Gala Luncheon in New York City on December 4th, 2024.