Head of Licensing ON HOLD

Head of Licensing - West Sussex * Are you a heavyweight licensing professional? * Have you managed a team? * Have you worked with UK and global markets? We have an opportunity for an experienced head of licensing to join us in a permanent capacity of Head of Licensing, to lead and manage the Licensing division as we further expand our already established and successful licensing programme globally. The role full time role will require you to attend the office at least three times per week with some flexibility to work from home on the other days. The Role: Overseeing a competent team of four, you will be working with best in class Licensees and Agents in the UK and globally. Responsible for the overall Licensing strategic direction and delivering profitable growth in line with target revenue streams. Responsible for bringing the brands to life with engaging and compelling products. Accountable for building strong relationships with licensees and retailers, whilst inspiring and leading the team to maximise their full potential. Working in collaboration with the Sales and Marketing team you will also be responsible for seeking new business opportunities, targeting new categories, reaching new markets and ensuring growth across wider global markets. You'd be joining a team filled with passion, drive and hunger for success. About you: This is a challenging and varied role. You will have held company leadership roles previously and must have people management experience. Proven knowledge and significant proven commercial success in the licensing sector. Experienced in licensing market research and brand management, as well as the product development process is essential. Applicants should be educated to degree level or equivalent with substantial experience in contract negotiation, brand and budget management. Knowledge of Copyright and Trademarks is essential. A creative approach, commercial awareness and the ability to work accurately within tight deadlines is crucial in this role. You will need to work collaboratively as part of a team with Sales, Marketing and Creative, as well as external companies and agencies. Specific responsibilities and skills required: Responsible for setting and overseeing the delivery of the Licensing Strategy- both long and short-term objectives which adhere seamlessly to overall company objectives Steer the growth of our Licensing business through developing existing programmes and bringing new licensees to the portfolio to maximize the revenue potential globally Lead team of Licensing Managers and Approvals Coordinator through communication, objective setting and performance appraisals. Bring passion and enthusiasm to inspire team and Licensees with a strong focus on active listening Ownership of full divisional P&L and Global financial income management including account plans, budget setting and forecasting with financial acumen Bringing valuable industry contact lists both at licensee and retailer level both for the UK and Internationally to develop new revenue streams Support negotiations for all licensing agreements. Clearly communicate and bring persuasive techniques to all contract negotiations Appoint, manage and close licensing agreements with Licensees and Agents Set brand direction for all licensed categories based on knowledge and facts Set the creative handwriting and style guide direction through verified trend research working closely with the Creative and Marketing teams Prioritise licensing & retail partnerships in line with brand strategies to maximise revenue opportunities. This is with a particular focus on apparel, food and confectionery and Print on Demand categories Lead by example in terms of presentation and communication, both internally and externally Play a key role within company Leadership Team by challenging and bringing new ideas to the business, as well other internal and external stakeholders Set annual trade show direction and assisting the delivery of major tradeshows- including stand, supporting material, meeting schedules Meet regularly with key retailers to support licensing managers and licensees working at buyer level Create a point of difference for the company's brands amongst a competitive licensing landscape within the UK Secure and deliver compelling and commercial retail executions including cross category Identify and secure brand partnership arrangements in line with long term strategic objectives Ensure that Licensing team communicates information regularly, enabling collaborative brand plans, updates shared with all stakeholders and leveraging marketing opportunities Desirable additional experience: First-hand knowledge of apparel business from a manufacture & retail perspective Buyer / retailer knowledge and experience Experience in managing successful international licensing programs Travel: UK travel to Licensees offices, key retailer visits and any additional overseas travel if required. Salary and Benefits: Senior level sala