Director of Licensing Approvals

Company Description

CREATIVITY IS OUR SUPERPOWER.It’s our heritage and it’s also our future. Because we don’t just make toys. We create innovative products and experiences that inspire fans, entertain audiences and develop children through play. Mattel is at its best when every member of our team feels respected, included, and heard—when everyone can show up as themselves and do their best work every day.

We value and share an infinite range of ideas and voices that evolve and broaden our perspectives with a reach that extends into all our brands, partners, and suppliers.

The Opportunity:

Reporting to the Vice President of Product Development Operations, the Director of Licensing Approvals collaborates with all levels of Mattel management and cross-functional teams, including Design & Development, Sales, Brand Marketing, Legal, global licensing partners, and other key stakeholders.

The Director of Licensing Approvals will directly manage multiple first line managers with full responsibility for approximately 10 total staff. In conjunction with staff management responsibilities, the Director will be responsible for meeting contractual obligations as set forth in the licensing agreements, as well as ad-hoc requests deemed necessary to maintain strong Licensor to Licensee relationships

The ideal candidate must be experienced with managing a group of professionals in a very fast-paced, detail-oriented, service-driven role that is the bridge between Mattel and its Licensed Partners. Direct experience with consumer goods associated with the design and development of children’s toys is highly desirable. Experience with managing licensor to licensee relationships is a must.

What We’re Looking For:

• Minimum of 10 years of experience managing licensor to licensee relationships
• Minimum of 7 years of experience with Team Management;
  Lead, mentor, and develop our high-performing Licensing Approvals team, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and professional growth
• Reporting:
  Prepare and communicate clear, concise reports to senior management, highlighting significant findings, risks, and recommendations for improvement
• Stakeholder
  
  Collaboration:
  
  Work closely with key stakeholders, including Product Management, Product Packaging, Global Marketing, Commercialization, Sales, Legal and Licensors to build strong working relationships, facilitate collaborative approaches and to manage risk
• Experienced communicator with excellent influencing skills and a proven track record of building strong relationships with internal and external stakeholders
• Strong leadership, analytical, organizational, and project management skills
• Excellent verbal and written communications, presentation, and negotiation skills
• Proven record of providing excellent internal and external customer service
• Poise and ability to act calmly and competently in high-pressure, high-stress situations
• A proven track record in directing, motivating, and guiding the development of a team of professionals
• Demonstrated agrowth mindset by staying curious and continuously learning, embracing challenges, and improving themselves.

The annual base salary range for this position is between $181,500 and $227,000.

** This range is indicative of projected hiring range, however annual base salary will be determined based on a candidate’s work location, skills and experience.

Mattel offers competitive total pay programs, comprehensive benefits, and resources to help empower a culture where every employee can reach their full potential.

Don’t meet every single requirement?

At Mattel, we are dedicated to an inclusive workplace and a culture of belonging. If you’re excited about this role but your past experience doesn’t align perfectly with every qualification in the job description, we still encourage you to apply. You may be just the right candidate for this or other roles.

How We Work:

We are a purpose driven company aiming to empower generations to explore the wonder of childhood and reach their full potential. We live up to our purpose employing the following behaviors:

• We collaborate:Being a part of Mattel means being part…