Manager, Strategic Partnerships & New Business (NAM Softlines)

At Disney Consumer Products, we inspire imagination around the world and are committed to creating happiness for families and fans by bringing captivating, inspiring, and inclusive products into their daily lives.  From toys to t-shirts, console games, books, and more, our team brings our beloved brands and franchises into the lives of families through products and experiences that can be found worldwide. This role will sit onsite in Glendale, CA and report directly to the Senior Manager, NAM Softlines.

DESCRIPTION

The Manager, NAM Softlines is responsible for driving strategic Halo partnerships and new business opportunities that elevate Disney’s brands through premium collaborations, innovative product programs, and culturally relevant consumer experiences. This role will identify, negotiate, and manage high-impact licensing partnerships across fashion, luxury, lifestyle, and emerging categories with the goal of driving brand heat, consumer engagement, and revenue growth.

Working cross-functionally with Franchise, Product Development, Sales, Marketing, Legal, and Finance teams, this individual will develop and execute licensing strategies that extend beyond traditional product programs to include bespoke collaborations, retailer-exclusive initiatives, integrated marketing campaigns, and multi-category storytelling opportunities. The role will support both evergreen franchises and new content launches, ensuring partnerships align with brand objectives while delivering meaningful business results.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Business Development & Planning

• Develop and execute strategic growth plans across assigned brands, categories, and distribution channels

• Identify, evaluate, and pursue new licensing and collaboration opportunities that drive incremental revenue and brand relevance

• Build business cases and partnership strategies for emerging categories, retailers, and market opportunities

• Manage annual budget planning, quarterly forecasting, and ongoing revenue performance tracking

• Develop high level presentations for external brands and business updates for senior leadership

Halo Partnerships & Category Management

• Lead relationships with key halo and premium licensing partners, serving as the primary business contact throughout the partnership lifecycle

• Source and negotiate new business opportunities that align with Disney brand priorities and consumer trends

• Drive collaboration programs that span multiple categories, retail channels, and marketing touchpoints

• Monitor competitive activity, industry trends, consumer insights, and retail dynamics to identify growth opportunities

• Partner with internal stakeholders to ensure successful execution of partnership strategies and business objectives

• Manage licensing agreements, amendments, approvals, and ongoing partner performance

Brand & Franchise Integration

• Partner closely with Franchise teams to align partnership strategies with brand priorities, content initiatives, and consumer engagement objectives

• Identify opportunities for collaborations that enhance brand storytelling and cultural relevance

• Guide partners on brand positioning, creative direction, and marketing integration

• Develop presentations and strategic recommendations that support franchise and category planning

Product Development & Creative Execution

• Collaborate with Product Development teams and partners to bring innovative, high-quality products and experiences to market

• Lead partner line reviews and milestone meetings to ensure alignment with Disney quality standards and brand objectives

• Support development of retailer-exclusive programs, bespoke packaging, and limited-edition collections

• Ensure products and creative executions deliver premium consumer experiences and reflect partnership goals

Retail, Marketing & Consumer Engagement

• Partner with Sales and Marketing teams to develop go-to-market strategies, retail activations, and integrated marketing programs

• Identify opportunities for retailer-exclusive collaborations and strategic merchandising initiatives

• Monitor retail performance and consumer response to partnership programs and recommend optimization opportunities

• Build strong cross-functional relationships to drive awareness, execution, and growth across the portfolio

EDUCATION/EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s Degree preferred

• 5+ yrs. of experience or or MBA with  3-4  years' experience

REQUIREMENTS/QUALIFICATIONS:

• Strong understanding of brand strategy, consumer products licensing, retail distribution, and partnership development

• Experience identifying, evaluating, and managing strategic licensing, collaboration, and new business opportunities

• Knowledge of consumer, cultural, and retail trends, with the ability to translate insights into business opportunities

• Strong relationship-building skills with experience managing external partners and cross-functional stakeholders

• Excellent analytical, financial, and strategic planning capabilities

• Strong organizational and project management skills with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment

• Exceptional written, verbal, and presentation skills, including executive-level communications

• Self-starter with a proactive, entrepreneurial mindset and strong attention to detail

• Collaborative team player with the ability to influence and align diverse stakeholders

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Word, and Keynote; experience with financial planning and forecasting tools preferred

• Passion for brand building, storytelling, and culturally relevant consumer experiences

○ The hiring range for this position in Glendale, CA is $115,500.00-$154,800.00 per year. The base pay actually offered will take into account internal equity and also may vary depending on the candidate’s geographic region, job-related knowledge, skills, and experience among other factors. A bonus and/or long-term incentive units may be provided as part of the compensation package, in addition to the full range of medical, financial, and/or other benefits, dependent on the level and position offered.