Charles M. Riotto, President and CEO, International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association

Charles M. Riotto is President and CEO of the International Licensing Industry Merchandisers’ Association (LIMA), the world’s leading trade group for licensing marketing professionals, with over 1,100 member companies worldwide.

LIMA is recognized globally as the authoritative voice of the licensing industry. Under Mr. Riotto’s leadership, LIMA became the exclusive association sponsor of Licensing Expo, the world’s largest marketplace for licensed properties, attracting more than 17,000 visitors from around the globe. He has expanded LIMA’s global footprint by growing international membership more than 90%, establishing offices in London, Munich, Tokyo, Hong Kong and Melbourne, as well as representation in seven countries – and counting.

Mr. Riotto is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the association, including serving as an industry spokesperson to the trade and consumer media, as well as interaction with the Board of Directors, which includes representation by some of the world’s largest corporations, entertainment studios and sports leagues. He has guided the association through a period of unprecedented growth in the licensing industry. In 2013, revenues from the sales of licensed merchandise reached an estimated $115 billion at retail in the United States, and about $195 billion worldwide.

Mr. Riotto has spent over 35 years in association management. Prior to joining LIMA, he served as Executive Director of the International Recording Media Association and previously as Marketing Director and Executive Director of the Toy Manufacturers of America, Inc.

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