Licensing Manager

Role Overview

Le Cordon Bleu International is seeking a Licensing Manager to spearhead the expansion of its global brand through strategic licensing partnerships and commercial ventures. Celebrating more than 128 years of culinary and hospitality excellence, this role focuses on growing the international licensing portfolio across various categories such as culinary books, cookware, kitchenware, apparel, gourmet goods, and lifestyle merchandise. The Licensing Manager will collaborate closely with licensees and internal teams to identify new opportunities, nurture partnerships, negotiate agreements, and ensure all licensed items uphold the brand's quality and heritage standards.

This position is suited for a commercially focused licensing expert experienced in consumer products or lifestyle brands, possessing strong relationship management capabilities and a demonstrated track record of increasing licensing revenues via effective partnerships. While a passion for culinary and hospitality sectors is preferred, it is not mandatory.

Key Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary contact for licensees ensuring adherence to brand DNA, product standards, and packaging guidelines tailored for global markets.
• Manage and develop licensee relationships, maintaining weekly communications regarding business updates.
• Collaborate with licensees on their overall business activities including marketing and new product development aligned with contractual agreements.
• Oversee royalty reporting by collecting actual sales reports from licensees, monitoring figures, and contributing to projections and budgeting.
• Act as the liaison between licensees and internal product and marketing teams.
• Engage in strategic initiatives to enhance business growth in current and new categories and regions.
• Assist VPs in discovering new business opportunities, licensees, collaborations, and analyzing untapped market spaces.
• Keep up-to-date with industry trends and insights by attending trade shows, industry awards, and promotional events to elevate the brand's visibility.

Qualifications and Experience

• Experience in brand management within licensing environments.
• Strong business development skills combined with contract negotiation expertise.
• Financial management capabilities including budget planning.
• Previous work experience in a licensing agency or internal licensing department in a comparable role.
• Ability to confidently liaise with diverse stakeholders both internally and externally at all organizational levels.