Global Managing Director/COO AMB LLC

Ann Buckingham is a distinguished global business executive with a proven track record of success in leading and scaling some of the world’s most iconic brands. With extensive experience in global consumer products, brand and category management, licensing, omni-channel strategies, sales and marketing, creative direction, merchandising, and product development, Ann has consistently delivered exceptional results across the companies she has served, including The Walt Disney Company, 20th Century Fox, DreamWorks, and CreateMe Technologies.

In her current role as Global Managing Director/CCO  at AMBC LLC, Ann has been instrumental in developing business strategies and scaling initiatives for a diverse portfolio of companies. Her work includes transforming an apparel and accessory manufacturing company by expanding its offerings through a successful licensing strategy with major global brands. Additionally, she has driven business development efforts for a start-up specializing in innovative, eco-friendly consumable products. As Chief Commercialization & Strategy Officer at CreateMe Technologies, Ann played a pivotal role in generating substantial revenue through strategic acquisitions and establishing groundbreaking partnerships with luxury brands, significantly enhancing the company’s market position.

During her tenure as Senior Vice President of Brand Merchandising and Product Design at The Walt Disney Company, Ann consistently led efforts to increase revenue and expand market share globally. She played a key role in driving product innovation and established high-impact commercial programs with leading brands and designers, solidifying Disney’s leadership in the global market. Her strategic vision and ability to create market-leading products and experiences have made her a trusted leader within the organization.

Throughout her career, Ann has led major growth initiatives that have resulted in significant improvements in revenue and market presence. At DreamWorks, she directed global brand strategy and product development, successfully launching and scaling popular merchandise programs that resonated with consumers worldwide. Her earlier work at The Walt Disney Company’s Fashion and Home Consumer Products divisions was marked by her ability to drive growth through innovative content activations and strategic partnerships with designers, retailers, and other key stakeholders. At Heyman Corporation, Ann transformed the company from a regional player into a leading apparel manufacturing powerhouse, recognized for its market leadership and innovative products.

Ann holds a Bachelor of Arts in Liberal Arts and Sciences from Marquette University, Milwaukee, WI. She is deeply involved in her community and professional organizations, serving as an Advisory Board Member for XR Goods Company, a member of the Marquette Institute for Women’s Leadership Council, and the Board of Governors for Marquette Media and Communication Alumni. Additionally, she is an active member of Women in Toys, Licensing & Entertainment, the Association of Croatian American Professionals, the Croatian Women’s Network, and Chief.

Ann is a dual citizen of the United States of America and the Republic of Croatia, and she remains an active contributor to her professional and cultural communities. Her strategic vision, leadership acumen, and ability to navigate complex global markets make her a sought-after executive in the industry.