Dr. Seuss Enterprises has announced the promotion of Nicole Gates to senior corporate counsel. In this new role, Nicole will continue to lead and oversee matters relating to Dr. Seuss’ global portfolio and manage all legal concerns.

Gates graduated from the University of Virginia with a BA in Art History and then went on to USC Gould School of Law, where she earned her Juris Doctorate. She has held positions at global law firms in San Diego and Los Angeles before joining Dr. Seuss Enterprises and is also a member of the Association of Corporate Counsel.

Gates joined Dr. Seuss Enterprises in 2018 as its first in-house counsel and has now worked her way up to senior corporate counsel, where she manages all legal aspects, including infringement issues, a global trademark portfolio, entertainment and licensed product contracts and litigation matters. Gates is a member of Dr. Seuss’s executive team and oversees and provides counsel on matters relating to the company’s global portfolio including the Dr. Seuss books, films, TV shows, stage productions, exhibitions, digital media, licensed merchandise and other strategic partnerships.  Additionally, Gates drafts and negotiates license and content creation agreements, provides advice on disputes and assists with day-to-day commercial transactions.

During the past year, Gates’ duties have expanded beyond that of legal advisor. In addition to her new title as senior corporate counsel, Dr. Seuss Enterprises, Gates was appointed secretary of Geisel-Seuss Enterprises in 2021.

“Over the past few years, Nicole has become an integral member of Dr. Seuss Enterprises’ leadership team and has provided invaluable legal advice and support,” says Susan Brandt, president, Dr. Seuss Enterprises. “The promotion to senior corporate counsel is well-deserved and we are excited to see Nicole continue growing within the organization and take on this new role.”