Robbins to HeadSelf Esteem Licensing Department

Los Angeles-based Self Esteem is attempting to take its junior sportswear label to higher plateaus by forming an in-house licensing department and moving full speed into brand-building territory. As part of this effort, the company has hired Molly Robbins to serve as vice president of licensing, a new post reporting to owner Richard Clareman.

Robbins, who joined Self Esteem’s staff earlier this month, has over 12 years of experience and has held licensing-management posts at retail and manufacturing operations including Bebe Stores Inc. and Levi Strauss & Co.

Robbins will develop strategic plans for licensed products and oversee negotiation of agreements. She will also focus on developing brand awareness at retail levels. Self Esteem is currently sold at over 3,000 retail stores in the United States, including Macy’s and JCPenney.

The company said it will continue to pursue licensing deals in a variety of areas that fit well with the company’s brand image and junior consumers, including footwear, swimwear, accessories and denim-related products. —Claudia Figueroa