Accounts Manager, Partner Operated

The Accounts Manager - Partner Operated, manages and grows relationships with a portfolio of experience-based partners: resorts, family entertainment destinations, hospitality brands, and other venues where Build-A-Bear brings joy to consumers outside of traditional retail. This role sits at the intersection of brand partnership, business development, and account management. This role is responsible for expanding Build-A-Bear's presence in experience-driven environments to co-create solutions that integrate brand, product, and experience as well as fostering long-term, value-driven partnerships

Responsibilities:

• Own strategic relationships with a portfolio of experience-based partners, serving as their primary Build-A-Bear contact and growth advisor
• Develop and execute partner-specific business plans that align Build-A-Bears brand and product strategy with each partners guest experience goals
• Lead regular business reviews and executive conversations with senior leadership at partner organizations
• Identify and pursue expansion opportunities within existing partners - new locations, seasonal activations, exclusive offerings, and co-branded experiences
• Collaborate cross-functionally with marketing, merchandising, and operations to deliver seamless, on-brand partner experiences and the opening of new locations with the existing partner.
• Monitor partner performance (invoiced revenue (forecast) & retail sales), track KPIs, and proactively address challenges before they escalate
• Training & Mystery Shop: Liaison with our training department to ensure proper training sessions are delivered and following brand & operational standards
• Share best practices and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Ensure partners adhere to brand guidelines, operational standards, and legal requirements
• Conduct regular audits and reviews to maintain consistency and quality. Address any deviations or risks to brand reputation proactively.

Required Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree
• 5+ years of account management, partnership management, or business development experience - ideally entertainment, hospitality, franchise or family/experiential brands
• Experience working with experience-based or hospitality partners (theme parks, resorts, FECs, attractions, or similar) strongly preferred
• High proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Power BI
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills
• Executive presence
• Passion for the Build-A-Bear brand and the emotional connection it creates for guests and families

Behavioral Traits for Success:

• Independent, analytical problem solving
• Exceptional depth of expertise
• Methodical, data-driven decision making
• Innovative but practical
• Structured work style
• Thoughtful communicator
• Persistence and ownership of complex work

Working Environment:

• Typical office environment with climate control and sufficient lighting, ergonomic desk/chairs
• Corporate Office located St. Louis, MO
• Some travel required

Your Performance Will Be Measured On:

Your performance will be measured by your ability to achieve annual department objectives and corporate goals which include but are not limited to the following:

• Decision-making, judgment, and execution
• Clear and thorough communication, both spoken and written, with internal and external parties
• Timeliness and follow-up
• Problem solving and removing obstacles
• Planning and organization
• Building strong relationships with cross-functional team members and partner operated account contacts
• Tenacity and commitment to tasks
• Internal and external stakeholder feedback