Senior Global Director, Brand Licensing & Partnerships, Newell Brands
Johanna C. Sullivan is a seasoned executive with extensive expertise in scaling global businesses through partnerships, licensing and business development. With over two decades of experience across diverse industries such as consumer products, durable goods and entertainment, Johanna has successfully led initiatives to drive revenue growth and enhance brand loyalty across B2C and B2B markets.
Currently serving as Senior Director of Global Licensing and Partnerships at Newell Brands, Johanna leads the company’s efforts to expand its brands through strategic licensing partnerships. She is responsible for developing a centralized global licensing capability and optimizing brand and product licensing strategies.
Prior to joining Newell Brands, Johanna held senior leadership roles at companies including Nexii Building Solutions, Serta Simmons Bedding, Kimberly-Clark, Coca-Cola, and Turner Broadcasting. At Nexii, as Senior Vice President of Global Partnership Development, she led the company’s efforts to identify key global markets and develop the end-to-end licensing partnership operating model. At Serta Simmons, Johanna directed global licensing strategy and operations, growing revenue by double digits year-over-year and managing partnerships that spanned over 100 markets globally.
Johanna’s career is marked by her ability to develop and operationalize innovative brand growth strategies, lead high-performing teams, and navigate complex global markets. A native of Brazil, she is fluent in English and Portuguese, enhancing her ability to lead across diverse international markets.
Education:
- MBA, Auburn University (In progress)
- BBA in International Finance, Georgia State University
Past and Current Associations & Leadership Roles:
- Board Member & Chair of Human Capital Committee – LaAmistad
- Member – Society of Product Licensors Committed to Excellence (SPLiCE)
- Member – Licensing International (LIMA)
