Category Manager – Fashion

Warner Bros. Consumer Products (WBCP), a Warner Bros. Entertainment Company, extends the Studio's powerful portfolio of entertainment brands and franchises into the lives of fans around the world. WBCP partners with best-in-class licensees globally on an award-winning range of toys, fashion, home décor, and publishing inspired by franchises and properties such as DC, Looney Tunes, and Harry Potter. The division's successful global themed entertainment business includes groundbreaking experiences such as The Wizarding World of Harry Potter and Warner Bros. World Abu Dhabi. With innovative global licensing and merchandising programs, retail initiatives, promotional partnerships, and themed experiences, WBCP is one of the leading licensing and retail merchandising organizations in the world. To be successful at WBCP, you must have a willingness to model our values and behaviors, champion diversity and inclusion, leverage data and insights to maximize the legacy of our deep brands and franchises, while maintaining a commitment to fostering best-in-class talent. The Category Manager – Fashion will assist the Director in shaping and executing short and long-term strategies for Apparel, focusing on collaborations. This role involves managing licensee relationships, identifying and pitching new partners, managing contract negotiations and deal execution, and overseeing category performance. You will work collaboratively within the Fashion and Home team to ensure strategies support our broader company goals. This role also oversees quarterly forecasts, budget reviews, and various category initiatives. Expect to present business updates and new initiatives to senior management, partner with internal teams, and drive new business. Additionally, you will create pitches for internal and external partners and use industry trends to identify fan-first business opportunities. Job Responsibilities / Typical Day in the Role Contribute to the overall Apparel category strategy, focusing on Collaborations. Pitch and sell our brands to secure new business and revenue growth. Own and drive the annual budget planning and quarterly revenue forecasting process, developing licensee objectives and initiatives to align with business goals. Lead and manage all aspects of licensee relationships, including deal negotiation, contract management, deal entry, approvals, renewals, and serve as the primary point of contact for daily communication with licensees. Partner with Contract Ops and Legal teams to streamline and process contract-related needs efficiently. Collaborate with Retail Sales on presentations and sales meetings. Actively contribute to the creation and content of pitch decks. Work closely with the Product Development Team to deliver compelling merchandise assortments across all retail channels that leverage strong creative direction and support UP&E brand goals. Forge a synergistic partnership with Retail Sales and Product Development to surpass retailer goals and increase revenue beyond budget expectations. Collaborate with Franchise and Marketing teams to enhance brand presence and marketing initiatives. Analyze and understand the Licensed Apparel competitive landscape and market trends. Formulate strategies based on market insights and retailer performance. Cultivate relationships within WBD teams to explore cross-category opportunities. Support the Fashion team in daily responsibilities including reporting, financial analysis, pitch deck presentations, and projects. Assist the Director in developing and executing long-term category strategies. Drive sub-category initiatives, revenue plans, and execution. Plan and monitor quarterly forecasts and annual budgets. Manage select licensees to establish product assortment and retail distribution plans. Negotiate and manage the entire contract and legal process for select licensees. Partner with Franchise, Creative, and Retail teams to drive franchise initiatives. Identify, evaluate, and execute new business initiatives. Interface with senior management providing updates, presentations, and participating in strategy discussions. Utilize industry insights and trends to maintain competitive advantage. Must Have Skills / Requirements Contract Negotiation Experience

5+ years of experience; negotiating licensing contracts with partners.

Excel Proficiency

5+ years of experience; proficient in creating and maintaining pivot tables.

Licensing and Consumer Products Experience

5+ years of experience; preferably in Media or Entertainment companies.

Nice to Have Skills / Preferred Requirements BA/BS degree preferred. Experience in Media and Entertainment licensing. Soft Skills Experience in brand building, positioning, and retail landscape understanding related to Licensed Apparel. Proficient in deal negotiation, contract management, and legal processes. Understanding of Apparel product development lifecycle and retail merchandise planning. Strong track record with licensee management. Exceptional communication and presentation skills. Team player with strong interpersonal skills. Excellent organizational and project management skills, with attention to detail. Ability to manage multiple tasks and adapt to priorities. Strategic thinker with a data-driven approach. Proficient in Excel pivot tables and financial reporting. Skilled in Microsoft Office and Apple Keynote. Willing to travel as needed.

#J-18808-Ljbffr