Job Summary
Ultra PRO is seeking an experienced and strategic Category Manager – Licensed Accessories to lead the development, growth, and performance of licensed product categories. This role is responsible for managing accessories tied to major entertainment, gaming, and pop culture properties, ensuring products align with licensor requirements while meeting market demand and company revenue goals. The Category Manager will work cross-functionally with Licensing, Product Development, Creative, Sales, and Marketing teams to bring compelling licensed accessories to market. Success in this role requires strong project management, licensing awareness, and the ability to balance brand integrity with commercial performance.
Essential Duties & Responsibilities
Category Strategy
- Develop and execute category strategies for licensed accessory product lines.
- Identify growth opportunities within existing licensed properties and propose new product concepts aligned with fan demand.
- Monitor market trends across gaming, entertainment, collectibles, and pop culture to inform product direction.
Product Development
- Lead the lifecycle of licensed accessory products from concept through commercialization.
- Collaborate with design and engineering teams to ensure products meet both functional and brand requirements.
- Manage timelines and coordinate internal stakeholders to ensure timely product launches.
Licensing & Brand Management
- Work closely with licensors to ensure product concepts and designs align with brand guidelines.
- Manage approval processes, ensuring submissions are complete and meet licensor expectations.
- Maintain strong working relationships with licensing partners and internal licensing teams.
Cross-Functional Collaboration
- Partner with Sales, Marketing, and Creative teams to develop compelling product positioning and launch strategies.
- Provide product knowledge and category insights to support sales initiatives and customer engagement.
- Coordinate with sourcing and manufacturing teams to ensure products meet quality, cost, and production targets.
Category Performance
- Track category performance and analyze sales trends to inform future product decisions.
- Manage SKU assortments and product mix to maximize category profitability.
- Identify opportunities for line extensions, refreshes, and new property integrations.
Competencies / Personal Characteristics
- Strategic thinker with strong commercial awareness
- Detail-oriented with strong project management discipline
- Ability to navigate licensor approvals and brand requirements
- Collaborative leader who works well across teams
- Passion for fan-driven products and entertainment brands
Education / Experience Requisites
- 5+ years of experience in product management, category management, or licensing-related roles.
- Experience working with licensed products, entertainment brands, or consumer goods categories is highly preferred.
- Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
- Excellent cross-functional communication and stakeholder management skills.
- Strong analytical mindset with experience evaluating product performance and market opportunities.
- Passion for gaming, collectibles, pop culture, or related enthusiast markets is a plus.
