Manager Franchise Strategy (WB & Western)

JOB SUMMARY:

The UDX Franchise Strategy team drives the global vision and strategic development and execution of franchise strategy and plans to cultivate IP growth and drive revenue throughout the franchise ecosystem. We are a high-performing team of makers, thinkers, leaders and rebels whose passion is to ignite ideas every day, in a culture that celebrates creativity, fresh thinking, executional excellence and each other.

The Manager, Franchise Strategy is responsible for partnering with the Director and Vice President to lead the growth and development of UDX licensed properties (Western) into global franchises. Key functions include long term strategic planning for priority IP, ideation and execution of new business models, and creation of innovative marketing plans that maximize licensed IP cross-company, ensure long-term success, and ultimately drive revenue and brand value for NBCUniversal. Reports directly to the Director, Franchise Strategy – Western IP & Portfolio.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Franchise Management
  • Partner with Director on the development of strategic global business plans for external franchises for Western IP and support in guiding implementation to drive UDX revenue and build brands.
  • Partner with Director and with the Destinations in annual business planning considering lifecycle, revenue potential, portfolio fit and long-term proposition.
  • First point of contact with WB and Western IPs Franchise external partner teams to develop strategies that are mutually beneficial across the portfolio.
  • Provide input as a thought leader to drive innovation with new models, unique partnerships and first of its kind go to market strategies.
  • Support the analysis and tracking of relevant metrics to support business case modelling and scenarios.
  • Contribute to the advancement and actualization of UDX’s inclusion commitments.
• Franchise Stewardship
  • Support Director and Vice President as the franchise champions and ambassadors for internal and external needs.
  • Partner with Director to connect key franchise stakeholders and oversee cross-company activations, including bridge year campaigns.
  • Support the creation of creative briefs to ideate authentic and merchandisable franchise extensions and refreshes.
• Communication & Collaboration
  • Ensure presentations and other communications are best in class and shared among all relevant parties and support clarity of message and alignment.
  • Support the Director in franchise communication to and in support of all Destinations: UOR, USH, USJ, UBR, USS, UKR, and UHU on franchise vision, ideation and strategies.
• Professional Leadership
  • Serve as a champion for best-in-class culture with an emphasis on collaboration, innovation and inclusion.
  • Lead the professional development of direct reports through continuous training and coaching.
  • Manage direct reports full-cycle including but not limited to managing team member performance, concerns, engagement, performance reviews and goals.
• Understand and actively participate in Environmental, Health & Safety responsibilities by following established UDX policy, procedures, training, and team member involvement activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s Degree preferred in marketing or related field.

EXPERIENCE:

• 5 years’ general experience; 3+ years in Franchise Management or Brand Marketing preferred.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

• Based in Orlando with periodic travel (up to 10%) to Los Angeles or other partner locations.

Your talent, skills and experience will be rewarded with a competitive compensation package.

Universal Products & Experiences (UP&E)
At Universal Products & Experiences (UP&E), we transform iconic stories into products and experiences fans can wear, play, collect, and enjoy every day. From the thrilling universe of Jurassic World to the fun of Minions and the timeless magic of Back to the Future, we bring beloved franchises to life far beyond the screen.
Founded in 2016, UP&E combines the energy of a startup with the reach of a global leader. Our mission is bold yet simple: to take imagination beyond the screen through innovative products, immersive retail, and unforgettable theme park experiences. Partnering with world class licensees and creators, we deliver toys, fashion, collectibles, games, and lifestyle products across parks, retail, and digital platforms worldwide.
Creativity, technology, and storytelling are at the heart of everything we do. As part of Universal Destinations & Experiences, you’ll join a collaborative, inclusive global team where every voice matters—helping us be an employer of choice for top talent and a partner of choice for retailers, licensees, and creators. If you’re ready to bring imagination to life and create moments that matter, your adventure starts here.
Join us and help create moments that matter.
https://www.universalproductsexperiences.com/

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