Sr Manager, Apparel, Accessories & Footwear Licensing

CREATIVITY IS OUR SUPERPOWER. It’s our heritage and it’s also our future. Because we don’t just make toys. We create innovative products and experiences that inspire fans, entertain audiences and develop children through play. Mattel is at its best when every member of our team feels respected, included, and heard—when everyone can show up as themselves and do their best work every day. We value and share an infinite range of ideas and voices that evolve and broaden our perspectives with a reach that extends into all our brands, partners, and suppliers.

The Opportunity

- 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, as relevant
- Build and manage high-impact licensing partnerships and collaborations from prospecting through execution

What We’re Looking For

*The pay range of 148,000 USD to 186,000 USD annual is indicative of projected hiring range, however base pay will be determined based on a candidate’s work location, skills and experience. Mattel offers competitive total pay programs, comprehensive benefits, and resources to help empower a culture where every employee can reach their full potential.

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