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Licensing Manager, Consumer Products

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Requisition ID:

Job Description:

Are you a whiz at managing multiple projects, different teams of co-workers and processes? Are you able to obsess over details while keeping the big picture in mind? Do you thrive in a high-stakes and fluid work environment that requires creative problem-solving and critical-thinking skills to ensure that projects are delivered on time and to the highest standards? Does the idea of building a consumer products program for some of the most iconic franchises in the video game industry excite you?? Are you the person we're looking for?

Covid-19 Hiring Update: We’ve transitioned to a work-from-home model and we’re continuing to interview and hire during this time. This role is expected to begin as a remote position. We understand each person’s circumstances may be unique and will work with you to explore possible interim options.

Role Description:

Reporting to Activision’s Director of Global Consumer Products, the Licensing Manager will be immersed in the company’s iconic video game and Activision Blizzard Esports franchises, such as Call of Duty, Crash Bandicoot, Call of Duty League and Overwatch League.

The Licensing Manager will drive revenue and fan engagement for the company by working with licensing partners on assigned product categories. The successful candidate will have experience managing the licensing partner relationships while simultaneously aligning and collaborating with game development teams, Consumer Marketing, Product Marketing, Retail, Legal and other cross-functional teams.

The ideal candidate for this role has Category Licensing experience (primarily with apparel & accessories), industry experience, go-to market and retail experience (including ecommerce), excellent organizational and time-management skills, a strong sense of commitment to, and personal ownership of, the responsibilities assigned to them, and ability to collaborate creatively and strategically.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Direct and manage the development, proposing, overseeing and implementation of short and long-term strategies for assigned categories
• Fiscal responsibility for assigned categories to include annual budget planning and quarterly revenue forecasting (setting annual AOP targets, obtaining and reviewing quarterly forecasts)
• Participate and contribute to the strategic planning process by developing strategies and business plans across properties and retailers
• Own and drive day-to-day relationships with assigned licensees including contract negotiation, issue resolution, risk management, and promotional/advertising initiatives
• Collaborate with licensees to build line plans (ensuring appropriate sku count, price point and brand initiatives are maximized), provide DRM oversight to ensure licensee product lines reflect Activision quality and brand/property objectives
• Analyze and understand market trends, consumer and retailer and industry needs to develop an understanding of the competitive landscape and how we will win in it
• Analyze business performance of assigned accounts to develop and drive growth initiatives in alignment with financial KPIs
• Build relationships and collaborate with buyers and internal retail marketing teams to maximize product launches with high level of retail support and to ensure quality, brand consistency, and product execution for defined distribution windows
• Oversee and ensure timely approvals of licensee’s submissions
• Maintain updated line lists, placement, exclusive development, and promotional program information.
• Complete analysis and help develop presentations in support of brand and category management

Requirements:

• 6-8 years of professional experience with a minimum of 4 years of licensing experience
• Demonstrated understanding of the brand’s consumer, product and print innovations, drives quality and champions innovation in product development to ensure lines are commercially viable for all territories while meeting retailer needs
• Strong understanding of culturally relevant brands; experience in developing fashion brand collaborations that will resonate and engage our customer base and translate into revenue and/or earned media value for the company
• Solid understanding of brand and property positioning and the retail environment
• Demonstrated track record of successfully managing licensees on a day-to-day basis to drive growth ambitions, particularly in apparel, and accessories. (experience with hardlines is a plus)
• Does not settle for the status quo
• Experience thriving in a globally oriented working environment
• Demonstrated ability to build relationships, collaborate and influence with cross-functional teams (such as Development, Creative, Marketing, Legal, Finance etc.)
• Able to function in a fast-paced metrics driven environment
• Ability to manage multiple complex projects simultaneously and consistently deliver against deadlines
• Strong analytical and strategic thinking skills
• Ability to work and thrive in a team environment with various internal groups
• Solid relationships in the licensing industry
• Ability to evaluate and identify best-in-class licensees and partners
• Ability to succinctly convey messages at an executive and customer level through strong communication and presentation skills
• Bachelor’s degree
• Passion for video games a plus

We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status.

Blizzard Entertainment is a global company committed to growing our employees along with the business. We offer generous benefits and perks with an eye on providing true work / life balance. We’ve worked hard to foster an intensely collaborative and creative environment, a diverse and inclusive employee culture, and training and opportunity for professional growth. Our people are everything. Our core values are real, and our mission has never changed. We are dedicated to creating the most epic entertainment experiences…ever. Join us!