“We work in an industry where trust, follow-through and service matter just as much as product quality,” declares Viben sales exec Kara Liburd. “Retailers today want analytics, marketing assets and deeper product knowledge, and brands are stepping up to provide that support.”
She should know. Though a recent addition to the Viben brand, Liburd is a seasoned expert familiar with every corner of the pleasure industry — and someone who knows precisely how to connect with her customers, because she once walked in their shoes. She landed her first industry gig in 2014, with central Florida retailer Fairvilla, while still in college.
There’s so much potential ahead, and I’m excited to help drive that forward.
“At first, it was just a way to work through school, but it ended up becoming a career I love,” she recalls, echoing a common story as old as the pleasure business. “I started as a sales associate and eventually managed two store locations, where I learned the ins and outs of retail.”
Indeed, Liburd received a thorough education in all aspects of consumer service. She interacted with customers on the sales floor, organized product training sessions and mastered inventory management. Her formative years at Fairvilla established a strong foundation that she still relies on today, particularly when managing accounts and creating growth strategies.
“That experience gave me a real understanding of what drives sell-through,” says Liburd. “I learned what consumers respond to, how displays influence buying behavior and how education impacts confidence at the register.”
After a decade with Fairvilla, Liburd joined Fun Factory, spending most of 2024 and 2025 as the manufacturer’s North American sales manager. Then, this past October, Viben Toys welcomed Liburd to the brand’s sales team.
“Joining Viben has been an exciting step for me,” she enthuses. “After meeting the team and learning about their focus on quality, performance and inclusive branding, I saw an opportunity to be part of something that’s growing quickly and thoughtfully. I was drawn to their modern approach and their willingness to innovate within a competitive market.”
At Viben, Liburd’s Orlando location provides easy access to both East and West Coast accounts while keeping her closely connected to her retail partners. As an account executive, she creates opportunities through merchandising programs, education initiatives and promotional partnerships.
“What I enjoy most is the strategic aspect,” she says. “I love finding ways to align Viben’s product line with a retailer’s goals and customer base. Every partner has different market dynamics, so I spend a lot of time analyzing sales trends, providing marketing feedback and helping accounts optimize their assortments. Seeing how our products perform, how that directly supports our partners’ success, helping retailers grow and knowing that our collaboration makes a measurable difference — that’s what keeps me motivated.”
Liburd also finds inspiration in product launches, new retailer openings, keeping up with shifting consumer preferences, and especially the personal interactions that comprise such a crucial part of her work.
“Strong partnerships directly impact sell-through,” she emphasizes. “When you combine excellent product education with thoughtful merchandising and consistent follow-up, the results become clear.”
In a sector where the line between friends and colleagues tends happily to blur, Liburd advises industry up-and-comers, the basic principles of good business apply threefold.
“Everyone knows everyone in this space, so reputation matters,” she says. “Integrity, follow-through and professionalism will take you further than anything else. Stay adaptable, stay curious and always deliver on what you promise. This industry rewards people who put in the work.”
In 2026, Liburd is focusing on growth for Viben and the accounts she supports, as well as strategic education.
“Not just teaching product features, but translating that knowledge into real sales results,” she explains. “Training and education programs can dramatically improve conversion, so I want to keep building tools that make our retailers stronger and more confident on the sales floor.”
When not working, Liburd enjoys Orlando’s endless summer vibes. Warmed by the Florida sun, she likes to dip into a romance novel poolside or take a trip to the local farmer’s market. During the week, she brings her own heat as a passionate professional dedicated to her craft.
“In the long term, I hope to continue being part of the evolution of this industry, which values professionalism, collaboration and innovation,” she reflects. “There’s so much potential ahead, and I’m excited to help drive that forward.”
