Lead, Product Licensing Manager – Global Product Licensing (GPL)

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.
 

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.
 

WHAT YOU WILL WORK ON

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.

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.
 

WHAT YOU BRING

• Bachelor’s degree with 4+ years in product management, merchandising, or a related field or equivalent combination of experience, education and training.
• Strong knowledge of product creation, merchandising, 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.
• Demonstrated ability to build strong relationships and drive alignment across teams.
• Keen product eye and attention to detail.
• Ability to travel up to 25%.

We offer a number of accommodations to complete our interview process including screen readers, sign language interpreters, accessible and single location for in-person interviews, closed captioning, and other reasonable modifications as needed. If you discover, as you navigate our application process, that you need assistance or an accommodation due to a disability, please complete the Candidate Accommodation Request Form.