Head Of Product Development - Licensing

A well-established and fast-growing consumer products business is seeking a Head of Product Development – Licensing to lead and inspire a high performing team delivering licensed product ranges across multiple categories for global retailers.
This role combines strategic leadership with hands-on product ownership, managing key licensed ranges while overseeing the wider product development function. You will work closely with design, quality, compliance and commercial teams to ensure products deliver creativity, commercial value and design excellence at every stage.
Key Responsibilities
Leadership & Collaboration
* Lead, coach and develop the licensed product development team, fostering a culture of creativity, accountability and continuous improvement
* Encourage strong collaboration between product development, design, commercial teams and global suppliers
* Ensure alignment between creative vision and commercial objectives across all projects
Product Development & Ownership
* Manage the development of selected licensed product ranges from concept through to production approval
* Work closely with licensors, design teams and commercial teams to develop standout products for global markets
* Set the standard for excellence in product development, execution and innovation
Range Development & Execution
* Oversee the full product development lifecycle across multiple licensed categories
* Ensure products meet quality, creative and price point expectations while remaining commercially viable
* Drive improvements in product and packaging design, encouraging innovation in materials, structure and presentation
* Ensure product ranges meet the needs of a wide range of retailers, from value to grocery and specialist channels
Market Awareness & Innovation
* Monitor trends, competitor activity and category developments to maintain market leadership
* Identify opportunities within existing and emerging licensed categories
* Promote a forward-thinking, consumer-driven approach to product development
Process & Delivery
* Maintain strong processes and critical path management across development projects
* Work closely with merchandising and licensing teams to ensure project timelines are met
* Collaborate with quality assurance teams to ensure compliance, product safety and ethical standards
* Oversee product presentation and storytelling within the showroom environment
Skills & Experience
* Proven leadership experience within product development, ideally across licensed consumer goods.
* Strong hands-on product development background with the ability to manage ranges directly
* In-depth knowledge of the full product lifecycle, from concept to retail shelf
* Strong commercial awareness with the ability to balance creativity with cost and margin requirement
* Excellent understanding of trends, consumer behaviour and market innovation
* Highly organised with excellent communication and stakeholder management skills
* Experience managing multiple projects across global teams and time zones
What’s on Offer
* Opportunity to lead and shape a growing licensed product portfolio
* A collaborative culture that values innovation, creativity and teamwork
* Exposure to global retailers and licensing partners
* Career development within a dynamic and forward-thinking business