We delve into the licensing life of Spearmark’s managing director.
Alex Bloom,
Managing Director, Spearmark
My route into the licensing industry went something like this…
I joined United Biscuits as part of their University Graduate Programme and by the time I left, I had managed the Choc-Dips, Space Raiders and Hula Hoops brands. After UB I worked at L’Oreal and was obviously not worth it! I knew that Spearmark were looking for a marketing manager so I asked my dad if I could have the job… and he made me go through a full interview process. The rest is history.
How many years in the industry?
15
When I was growing up, I had no idea licensing was an industry so I wanted to be…
He-Man, a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtle (Donatello), Danger Mouse or Scrappy Doo. I then grew up and realised that being Batman would provide me with better career opportunities.
The deal I am most proud of is…
Our first Ben 10 and Peppa Pig deals are certainly highlights, but the deal I am most proud of is London 2012; it was a real team effort from start to finish and was an incredible experience.
My most interesting experience in licensing has been…
Going to the Piano Bar during the Las Vegas Licensing Expo 2010 … dressed in women’s clothes.
The best piece of advice I’ve ever received is…
Say it straight.
If I wasn’t in licensing, I would be…
Sad.
Who do you admire most in the industry (and why)?
I really admire the SME business owners that have built great licensing companies – both licensee and licensor.
In a film of your life, which licensed character would play you?
I’d like it to be LEGO Batman, although I’m worried that the role may go to Dr Frank-N-Furter.
If I could change anything about the industry, it would be…
Putting a stop to the licensees that abuse the Treaty of Rome.