Director, Licensing – Brand & Product Management

New York City, NY (Hybrid)

$125K/yr – $150K/yrSenior LevelFull time

Posted 7 weeks ago

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Job Summary

Own senior client relationships and licensing strategy with cross-functional partners to shape brand fit, category architecture, and product direction. Lead onboarding, quarterly business reviews, and a growing program for licensee development while mentoring Brand and Product teams and driving process improvements.

  • Own client onboarding and QBR cadence to align brand goals with licensee growth.
  • Lead cross-functional licensing strategy and product direction with BD and VPs, presenting for approval.
  • Partner on new business proposals, budget planning, and forecasting to shape portfolio outcomes.

Job Description

Responsibilities

  • Serve as the senior relationship holder for clients, in partnership with the VP and with support from your team
  • Co-develop the licensing strategy for each client — phase 1 category priorities, stretch categories, program roadmap — in partnership with your Business Development counterpart, leading on brand fit, category architecture, and product direction, and present jointly to the VPs for approval
  • Oversee onboarding of new clients, developing a deep understanding of their brand, needs, and objectives
  • Ensure Brand Managers execute against each client's strategy, setting quarterly goals for product pitches and licensee growth efforts
  • Establish and run a QBR cadence for each brand with internal leadership and clients
  • Identify program challenges and proactively bring innovative solutions to the VP of Brand & Product
  • Partner with the Licensing & Earthbound Business Development team on new business proposals, budget planning, and financial forecasting
  • Support trade show strategy and attend key meetings with senior client and licensee partners
  • Manage, mentor, and develop a team of Brand Managers, Product Managers, and Product Associates, including onboarding and ongoing feedback
  • Model cross-functional collaboration, communication, empowerment, and inclusion across the team and with leadership
  • Identify opportunities for process improvements within the team
  • Develop solutions that enhance team productivity and program effectiveness

Requirements

  • 10+ years of experience in brand management and client services, ideally within brand licensing (agency, licensor, or licensee side)
  • 3+ years of team management experience
  • Strong understanding of client and licensee relationships, licensing program dynamics, and product development processes
  • A relationship-first approach paired with creative problem solving
  • Demonstrated strategic and creative thinking
  • Excellent presentation, communication, and relationship-building skills
  • Bachelor's degree