Licensing Manager (Softlines) – EMEA

Job Summary: 

We are seeking a highly strategic, results-driven Manager, Consumer Products EMEA to lead and expand the regional Softlines business within the Franchise - Consumer Products division at Mattel EMEA. 

This pivotal role will be directly responsible for the strategic and commercial management of Mattel’s most important Softlines partners across EMEA, spanning apparel, footwear and home categories, sitting at the intersection of partner management, commercial leadership and strategic development and acting as the primary point of contact for Top partners, while ensuring internal alignment across Consumer Products, Brand, Marketing, Product Development and Global teams.  

What Your Impact Will Be: 

Relationship:

• Manage all aspects for day-to-day Top Tier SL partners using a data-first approach (, EUROMONITOR)  
• Deliver detailed JBP per partner that includes forecast, budget, stretch targets, retail & marketing calendars and EMEA relevant product line plans by country.   
• Develop deep relationships with partners at all levels.  
• Conduct bi-weekly 121 meetings, quarterly business reviews, annual top to tops and track financial goals through forecasting and ambitious sales targets  
• Deliver and ensure detailed joint marketing plan per partner that includes licensee investment that is aligned with Mattel CP goals. Ensure marketing support for top items.  
• Negotiate EMEA deal terms and submit for legal drafting ensuring all relevant approvals have been gathered and all information required is present and correct 
• Liaise with the legal team and licensee on contract drafting 

New Business:  

• Research, identify and pitch new category opportunities and prospective clients 
• Prepare brand pitch and marketing presentations across Mattel’s IP portfolio of brands 
• Attend Trade Fairs or category specific shows 

Strategy :

• Responsible as the key point of connection for all aspects for SL Top tier partners including internal alignment and planning, country feedback, building business plans and strategy  
• Support Category Lead on key strategy for region  
• Bi-weekly SL calls with each market lead to providing the necessary support and planning  
• Analyze the market with SWOT, Gaps, opportunities, category priorities & Keep current with changing trends & competitors  
• Monthly calls with global leads (GBT), franchise and brand teams 
• Support country teams to drive the top tier SL licensees through joint planning and immersion sessions.  
• Work closely with the Product Development, Creative and Quality & Assurance teams on getting first-class products to market  
• Work closely with Retail Development, Digital, PR, Regional Franchise and Local Brand teams to develop joint business plans. 
• Implement marketing and promotional strategies in liaison with internal & external stakeholders 
• Gather and share category best practice from across the EMEA region with local teams 
• Help find innovative ways to grow the business 
• Manage extension of local deals into additional EMEA countries