As a key member of the executive leadership team at the National Basketball Players Association (NBPA), Inky Son leverages her extensive expertise in licensing, marketing, and business operations to drive strategic initiatives that empower NBA players and elevate their business pursuits. A graduate of the Georgetown University McDonough School of Business, Inky spent over a decade learning and refining skills in the fashion industry, where she held pivotal roles at esteemed brands such as Donna Karan International, Sweetface Fashion Company, and Calvin Klein. Her journey also took her to Europe, where she gained invaluable experience with Pepe Jeans and Twenty8Twelve, before making a significant pivot to the Major League Baseball Players Association, fulfilling her dream of entering the sports industry as a young professional.
In 2017, Inky joined the NBPA as Vice President of Licensing, where she quickly made her mark before advancing to Chief Strategy Officer and ultimately becoming Chief Administrative Officer. In these roles, she has played a crucial part in shaping the association’s vision and strategy, ensuring that athletes are equipped with the tools and resources they need to thrive in their careers and beyond. Inky’s unique blend of experiences in both fashion and sports has positioned her as a trailblazer in the industry, and her commitment to empowering players is evident in every initiative she undertakes.
We had the privilege of interviewing Inky Son to delve into her insights on leadership and the evolving landscape of athlete empowerment. Her dedication to championing players’ voices and her visionary outlook on the future of sports management offer invaluable lessons for emerging leaders in the industry.
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