We find out more about The Point.1888’s associate commercial manager.
Olivia Wiggett, associate commercial manager, The Point 1888
My route into the licensing industry went something like this…
I joined the industry as an apprentice; after working full-time at a local tearoom I decided I wanted to venture into a new industry and to be honest I had no idea what industry I was going into. I really wanted to work with brands and fortunately came across the apprenticeship online. I applied immediately and to my luck got called in for an interview, where our md Will Stewart gave me the role there and then. My role was brand executive apprentice, and the rest is history!
How long in the industry?
Three amazing years.
When I was growing up, I had no idea that ‘licensing’ was an industry, so I wanted to be…
I really didn’t know what I wanted to be, I wanted to see where life took me. Although when I was 15, I wanted to be a zookeeper and ended up landing a week’s work experience at Paradise Wildlife Park.
Biggest inspiration in the licensing industry?
It is extremely hard to choose just one as there have been so many people throughout my career so far who have inspired me. I would have to say Bethan Garton – our director at The Point. Bethan has continuously supported me and my career, and is someone I have always looked up to. Bethan’s personality, knowledge and work ethic is truly inspiring and I’m so pleased to have worked closely with her over the past three years.
Best thing about your current role?
It would have to be the diversity in my days. I have always enjoyed dipping my toe into every corner of the business and no day is the same. I really enjoy brand and licensee management; I brand manage four of our brands at The Point along with the various categories including greetings, party, dress-up, food gifting and puzzles. I also work on all things retail, working closely with our head of retail, supporting with retail pitches and managing accounts.
What are you most proud of within your licensing career to date?
My proudest moment would have to be when I secured my first pan-European deal with our party licensees on one of our Moonbug properties, CoComelon. I had been working on the deals for some time so when they were all complete, I was so pleased. It was the first pan-Euro deal I had done so taught me so much and gave me a lot of knowledge to the category.
Licensed character you can most identify with (and why)?
Jessie from Toy Story because she’s driven, outgoing and always up for a challenge. People always say I look like her as well!
What were your first thoughts when you were revealed as a nominee for the Licensing International UK Rising Star Award?
I couldn’t believe it, I thought my colleague was joking when they told me. I think my first thought was whether it was too early to open the Prosecco!
Biggest lesson that you’ve learnt this year?
To believe in yourself and just go for it. What’s the worst that could happen?
The adage goes, once you enter the licensing industry, you never really leave… what are your short-term goals for your career in licensing?
My short-term goals are to continue expanding the brands I manage, along with bringing in new licensees and partnerships for our brand portfolio. Also, I’d love to continue managing any new brands that come into the company and hope to continue to develop my relationships with retailers, brand owners and licensees.
The Licensing International UK Rising Star award will be presented as part of The Licensing Awards 2021, which is taking place on Tuesday 14 September at the Grosvenor House Hotel, London.
