Licensing Manager

Pets + People is actively seeking a Licensing Manager to join the Licensing team! We develop a wide variety of products, within some of the top brands in the world, for pets and people that can be found at all major retailers. The #1 priority of this role is to protect the brand integrity and ensure coherence and alignment with the brand as well as all agreements set. The ideal candidate will be solution oriented, highly organized and can think outside of the box! You will proficiently manage the product development approvals process, be the go-to source for brand knowledge, own all communication both internally and externally, project and maintain sales opportunities across the teams and assist in identification and alignment within areas of growth. This position is based in our New York office and will report to the Director of Licensing.

What you'll do:

• Serve as the brand ambassador, guardian, and subject-matter expert for each license, ensuring all products, marketing materials, and content align with brand guidelines, contractual obligations, and overall business strategy.
• Act as the primary gatekeeper of the brand, reviewing and approving all concepts, products, packaging, and communications prior to licensor submission.
• Develop a deep understanding of each licensor’s retail strategy, including key accounts, sales performance, product development roadmaps, marketing initiatives, and customer service considerations.
• Manage the end-to-end product approval process for multiple licenses, from concept through production, ensuring timelines, quality standards, and licensor expectations are met.
• Serve as the day-to-day liaison between internal cross-functional teams (sales, product development, marketing) and licensors to ensure clear communication and alignment.
• Partner with internal and licensor sales teams to identify, establish, and develop new business opportunities.
• Collaborate closely with licensors to understand their business objectives, identify growth opportunities, and expand product assortments and distribution.
• Prepare and deliver forecasts, placement grids, quarterly sales recaps, and comprehensive business reviews for internal leadership and licensors.
• Proactively schedule and lead regular touchpoints with internal teams to review product development progress, sales performance, and marketing updates.
• Communicate effectively across teams to identify challenges, support resolution, and ensure issues are addressed quickly and collaboratively.
• Provide leadership with ongoing insights into licensor priorities, initiatives, and potential new product or partnership opportunities.
• Conduct category research, competitive analysis, and trend forecasting to identify new licensing opportunities and inform strategic planning.

Requirements:

• Bachelors' degree in business management or other related field
• 3+ years of Licensing experience in a managerial role, specifically with CPG brands
• Proven interpersonal skills and the ability to work well within a team
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Proven skills in problem-solving, organization, attention to detail and priority setting
• Highly collaborative team player who can work independently with minimal supervision
• Strong interpersonal skills; friendly, compassionate, and a highly professional demeanor

Some of Our Benefits:

• Medical, dental and vision care coverage
• 401K retirement plan with company match
• Hybrid schedule
• Work from home days
• Casual dress code & pet friendly!
• Free snacks and drinksMidtown office location close to public transportation