Lead, Product Licensing Manager – Global Product Licensing

Nike•Beaverton, OR

About The Position

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. 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.

Requirements

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%

Responsibilities

Product & Partner Leadership 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.
Category & Functional Alignment 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.
Cross-Functional Partnerships 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.
Operational Excellence 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.