Manager, Youth Licensing

The candidate will work closely with the Sr. Director of Licensing, Consumer Products helping to lead strategic planning, business development and execution of the League’s licensees of consumer products strategy. Candidate will be responsible for the Day-2-Day management of the Fanatics licensees, Fanatics Brands, product approval and execution, and managing license deals that meet the strategic, commercial and fan engagement objectives specifically in the youth segment. The Youth Manager will be responsible for establishing best practices, onboarding licensees, supporting Clubs and Licensees developing product lines that increase sales, and building new partnerships to ensure MLS is set for growth as we evolve heading to the 2026 World Cup.

• Support development of consumer products aligned with league strategy. Focused deliverables on soft and hard goods across multiple product categories in the youth space.
• Identify and execute business development opportunities across existing partners.
• Partner with licensees to develop and grow partnership with the goal of driving revenue increasing engagement across key fan segments (e.g., avid, casual, youth) and working across the organization to activate the league wide partnership deliverables.
• Work closely with licensees to develop and achieve financial plans and KPIs while driving growth strategies for the partnership.
• Build Club relationships supporting key initiatives, product innovation and licensee partnerships
• Manage the relationship between key licensees and management as applicable by property.
• Build strategic and tactical changes that drive business strategy and promote licensee efficiency.
• Demonstrate experience with direct licensee product development process.
• Manage and deliver financial targets to the agreed budget.
• Be a partner to Finance team to guarantee royalty reporting and financial payments are received in a timely manner.
• Additional responsibilities as assigned

Education and Experience

• 5 years of prior work experience, in licensing or a related sector
• Strong professional network within the youth licensing, manufacturing, consumer products and retail

Required Skills

• Strategic mindset to building business cases for taking calculated risks to grow consumer products, understanding of business dynamics, and analysis of competitive marketplace
• Understanding of product trends and business drivers in licensing and sports culture, including key players, aspirational and accessible products, and retail landscape
• Analytical skillset and data-driven approach to decision making
• Sound understanding of retail systems and practices
• Demonstrated understanding of the dynamics and needs of licensing
• Strong written and slide development presentation skills for clear communication
• Strong communication and presentation skills to interact with both MLS partners and MLS senior leadership.
• Attention to detail, especially when multi-tasking across various projects in a fast-paced environment.
• Comfortable juggling multiple projects, prioritizing stakeholder needs, and working under tight deadlines.
• Demonstrated decision making and problem-solving skills
• Ability to travel (10-20%) and to work non-traditional hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook

Desired Skills

• Knowledge of the Spanish Language (business proficiency)
• Knowledge of the sport of soccer

Total Rewards

Starting Base Salary $75,000 - $85,000. MLS/SUM base salaries are contingent upon several factors including individual qualifications, market financials, and operational business needs.

We are committed to providing a Total Rewards package that attracts, supports, engages, and retains talent through the following:

Benefits – comprehensive and competitive medical, dental, and vision benefits, as well as a suite of programs to promote well-being including a $500 Wellness Reimbursement. A generous PTO offering, and hybrid Office/Remote Work Schedule are also offered to promote Work-Life balance.

Career & Professional Development – on the job training, feedback, and on-going educational opportunities to continue your personal and professional development.

Employee Engagement – office perks, discounts and employee events that go “beyond the traditional paycheck” to make you feel a part of the our team and inspire you to elevate the Game.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.