The International Licensing Industry Merchandisers' Association has elected six new members to its board of directors and opened up the submission period for its U.K. Rising Stars awards.

The newly chosen industry executives who began serving three-year terms on July 1 are:

In addition, Ciaran Coyle, global vice president and head of global brand licensing at Electrolux Global Marketing, was elected vice chairman; and Christian Fortmann, partner and European trademark attorney at 24IP Law Group was named Board Designate to the Executive Committee, each for one-year terms. Rick Van Brimmer of Ohio State University will continue as LIMA Board Chairman.

“We’re excited about our new slate of board members whose wide-ranging backgrounds and extensive experience across the global licensing industry bring a valuable 360-degree perspective to the organization,” says LIMA President Charles Riotto. “I look forward to working with this group of industry leaders, who will help facilitate LIMA’s growth across the worldwide licensing landscape.”

In separate news, LIMA U.K. is now accepting submissions for its Rising Stars award. Nominations are due by July 14. 

The winner will be named during the Young Licensing Professionals Networking Event July 23 and will receive ongoing mentoring support from former LIMA board member Bettina Koeckler of 20th Century Fox and LIMA U.K.’s managing director, Kelvyn Gardner. 

The Young Professionals event will begin with career advice from a panel of licensing industry experts followed by the naming of the 2015 U.K. Rising Star and conclude with an opportunity for young licensing professionals to network and connect.

Visit Licensing.org for more details and to make a nomination.