Sr Manager, Apparel, Accessories & Footwear Licensing

About the role

Lead licensing strategy and business development across Apparel, Accessories, Footwear, and strategic collaborations to expand Mattel's brands, audience, and revenue. Identify, pitch, secure, and execute licensing programs across Fashion and adjacent categories. Build and manage high-impact licensing partnerships and collaborations from prospecting through execution.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop a high-performing team while fostering a collaborative, inclusive, and growth-oriented culture
• Develop multi-year growth strategies that achieve short- and long-term revenue objectives across brands and categories
• Identify whitespace opportunities and develop strategic partnerships through compelling pitches, deal negotiations, and innovative licensing programs
• Partner with Retail Development to expand distribution opportunities while leveraging consumer, retail, and marketplace insights to identify emerging trends and growth opportunities
• Lead cross-functional execution with Franchise, Creative, Retail Development, Marketing, Legal, Finance, and Licensees to deliver successful product launches and marketing programs
• Analyze and summarize licensee forecasts by identifying change drivers, explaining material variances, and highlighting risks and growth opportunities
• Partner with regional teams to align global strategy, scale successful programs, and manage market exclusivity
• Build strong relationships with other key business units to accelerate program execution and unlock new business opportunities

Requirements

• 10+ years experience in licensing and/or franchise management
• Deep expertise across apparel, accessories, footwear, and the broader licensing landscape
• Proven success negotiating licensing agreements with strong knowledge of contracts, royalties, and intellectual property rights
• Strong analytical/category research and assessment skills
• Proven team management and leadership skills
• Collaborative, solutions-oriented leadership style
• Excellent presentation, interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills
• Demonstrated ability to prioritize multiple complex initiatives in a fast-paced environment
• A passion for storytelling, brands and the power of play
• Demonstrates curiosity, continuous learning, and a growth mindset
• In-office presence following Mattel’s current policy
• MBA preferred but not required

Benefits

Mattel offers competitive total pay programs, comprehensive benefits, and resources to help empower a culture where every employee can reach their full potential.

Pay

The pay range is indicative of projected hiring range, however base pay will be determined based on a candidate’s work location, skills and experience.