Primary Function Our client is seeking a Category Manager, Licensing to manage key licensing partnerships and support category growth initiatives across retail channels. This role will serve as a primary liaison between licensed partners and internal teams, helping drive business performance through category planning, marketing coordination, product launches, and strategic relationship management. The ideal candidate is highly organized, analytical, and experienced in licensing, brand management, retail, or category management environments.
Duties & Responsibilities - Manage day-to-day relationships with licensed partners and act as the primary contact for partner communications and requests.
- Support category planning, retail initiatives, and business development opportunities to drive growth.
- Coordinate product launches and licensing programs across cross-functional teams.
- Collaborate with Marketing, Brand, PR, Social Media, and Sales teams to ensure consistent execution of licensing initiatives.
- Prepare presentations, sales materials, and category performance reports.
- Monitor market trends, competitor activity, and retail landscapes to identify opportunities and risks.
- Assist with contract administration, documentation, shipping approvals, and compliance-related activities.
- Track project timelines and ensure deliverables are completed accurately and on schedule.
- Provide recommendations and insights to support category and licensing strategies.
Skills & Qualifications - Experience in category management, licensing, merchandising, brand management, or related business functions.
- Strong understanding of retail environments and category performance drivers.
- Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities.
- Proven ability to manage multiple projects and priorities simultaneously.
- Highly organized with strong attention to detail.
- Ability to collaborate effectively across cross-functional teams and external partners.
- Proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, particularly Excel and PowerPoint.
Education & Experience - Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Merchandising, Communications, or a related field preferred.
- Experience supporting licensing programs, retail partnerships, category management, or consumer products businesses preferred.
- Experience working with external partners and cross-functional stakeholders in a fast-paced environment.
