Lead, Product Licensing Manager - Global Product Licensing

WHO YOU'LL WORK WITH

Nike Global Product Licensing is a fast-growing, entrepreneurial team responsible for shaping and executing Nike's long-term trademark licensing strategy across footwear, apparel, equipment, and accessories. We work closely with internal partners and external licensees to deliver brand-right, innovative products to consumers worldwide.

You'll collaborate closely with Category, Design, Brand, Legal, Finance, and Geo/Territory teams, as well as external licensees, to drive strategic growth and deliver best-in-class licensed product.

WHO WE ARE LOOKING FOR

We're seeking a strategic, consumer-obsessed Product Licensing Manager skilled in product creation leadership, cross-functional alignment, and managing complex external partnerships. You bring strong merchandising and product process knowledge, uphold brand standards, and thrive in a fast-moving, matrixed environment.

• Bachelor's degree in business management, product management, merchandising, or related field. Will accept any suitable combination of education, experience and training.

• 6+ years of relevant experience

• Strong knowledge of product creation, merchandising, franchise management experience and consumer insights.

• Proven ability to lead, influence, and inspire cross-functional teams.

• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills.

• Ability to navigate ambiguity, manage multiple priorities, and thrive in a matrixed environment.

• Exceptional attention to detail with strong organization & Influencing Skills

• Demonstrated ability to build strong relationships and drive alignment across teams.

• Phenomenal product eye and strong style sensibility

• Ability to travel up to 25%

• Lead licensee product creation teams to deliver brand-aligned assortments that reflect Nike category and brand strategies.

• Approve seasonal product strategies

• Coach partners on briefing, line planning, tools, and expectations; lead gate meetings and manage the full sample process.

• Maintain deep product line expertise to guide product and strategic decisions.

• Drive and track high-priority projects and serve as a strategic partner to Business Directors.

• Align Nike Category teams and licensee partners on consumer targets, brand positioning, assortment direction, and distribution strategies.

• Manage high-profile initiatives linked to brand moments, innovation platforms, and key collaborations.

• Collaborate with Design and Brand leaders on functional design and development (color, print, materials, tech development, naming, packaging, catalog).

• Partner with Product Safety, Tech Development, Materials, Packaging, and Brand Marketing to uphold quality, safety, and brand standards.

• Ensure consistent brand messaging and consumer-facing alignment across retail and digital experiences.

• Work with Legal, Athlete Representatives, and entity contacts to maintain product compliance and secure necessary approvals.

• Own and manage the end-to-end product approval process, ensuring compliance with all Nike standards.

• Communicate strategies and engage GPL cross-functional teams across systems, operations, sourcing, finance, and legal.

• Develop and implement process efficiencies and best practices across GPL, licensee teams, and categories.

• Track seasonal requirements, approvals, assortment plans, and sample management.