114 race victories in Formula 1, nine times Formula 1 Constructors’ Champion, seven times Formula 1 World Drivers Champions and the only team to have won in F1, 24h Le Mans and British Touring Cars. A proven track record that sets Williams Racing apart from the competition. Our unique character, combined with a deep passion for racing and future-oriented thinking, has created the very essence of our company.
Our mission is to win races and, in doing so, establish an authentic racing and lifestyle brand. Pure efficiency and the determination to win are key components of our company’s DNA and its overriding purpose. And it’s not only about being victorious on the racetrack. It is the essential mindset to remain competitive and to achieve success in everything we do.
It follows therefore that Williams' world class people are its most important asset. Our team operates at a high standard to ensure success.
Our commitment to support the next generation of innovators and winners gives us the opportunity to be ready for every challenge we face. Together we are successful. Together we win. We are Williams.
Job Description
The Senior Licensing Manager will lead the development, execution, and management of the Williams Racing licensing program. This includes identifying new opportunities, fostering relationships with licensees, and ensuring the alignment of licensed products with the team's brand values and strategic objectives. The role requires a blend of creative vision, commercial acumen, and operational excellence to drive revenue growth and enhance global brand presence.
While Formula One-related activities represent a significant proportion of the role, this is a group-wide remit that includes support for Experience Centre, Heritage, Commercial, Fan Engagement, Race team, Commercial partnerships and the wider Williams Racing group.
Main Duties:
* Develop a robust licensing framework to identify target categories, geographical regions, and potential partners that align with Williams Racing’s brand objectives.
* Establish long-term goals for the licensing program, including market penetration, revenue targets, and brand visibility outcomes.
* Continuously refine the strategy based on market insights, industry trends, and performance data. Track and report licensing performance metrics, including sales, royalties, and partner contributions.
* Identify and pursue new licensing opportunities in diverse product categories, such as apparel, accessories, collectibles, gaming, and lifestyle products.
* Lead negotiations for licensing agreements, ensuring terms are commercially advantageous and align with brand standards.
* Regularly review partner performance, providing feedback, support, and insights to optimize sales and engagement.
* Develop and maintain a comprehensive database of licensees, tracking contracts, key milestones, and performance metrics.
* Introduce exclusive and limited-edition product lines to drive excitement and create high-margin revenue opportunities.
* Monitor and analyze sales data, identifying trends and making recommendations to maximize revenue potential.
* Evaluate the feasibility of licensing in emerging sectors, such as NFTs, metaverse integrations, and eco-friendly products.
* Ensure all licensed products and packaging align with Williams Racing’s brand guidelines, aesthetic, and quality standards.
* Conduct regular audits of licensed products to ensure compliance with contract terms and quality assurance.
* Coordinate with legal and finance teams to finalize contracts, monitor royalties, and oversee financial reconciliations.
* Monitor global market trends, consumer preferences, and competitor activity to identify new opportunities for brand expansion.
* Conduct category-specific research to evaluate potential product lines and their market viability.
* Develop and manage annual licensing budgets, ensuring alignment with revenue targets and resource allocation.
* Support the launch of licensed products through promotional events, fan engagement activities, and digital campaigns.
* Leverage the Williams Racing fanbase to create loyalty programs and exclusive benefits tied to licensed product purchases.
Qualifications:
* A minimum of 5 years of proven experience in licensing and/or brand management.
* Experience managing high-value, complex licensing agreements and resolving disputes when necessary.
* Experience within the sports, motorsport, or entertainment industries is highly desirable.
* Familiarity with global licensing markets, including key regions such as North America, Europe, and Asia.
* Deep understanding of licensing frameworks, including royalty structures, contract negotiation, and compliance.
* Strong knowledge of intellectual property (IP) rights, trademarks, and copyright laws as they apply to licensing.
* Strong business development skills, with a track record of identifying and capitalizing on new opportunities.
* Ability to forecast and analyze financial performance, including royalty tracking and sales reporting.
* Advanced negotiation skills to secure favorable terms with licensees while maintaining strong, positive relationships.
* Strong creative vision to identify innovative product categories and concepts that align with the Williams Racing brand.
* Strategic mindset to balance short-term revenue goals with long-term brand-building objectives.
* Analytical ability to leverage market research and data insights to inform decisions.
* Exceptional organizational skills with the ability to manage multiple licensing projects simultaneously.
* Strong attention to detail in tracking contract terms, performance metrics, and product quality standards.
* Ability to deliver projects on time and within budget in a fast-paced environment.
Additional Information:
Note, whilst we are happy for this role to be based in our London location, there will be a need for travel to our factory in Grove, Oxfordshire.
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Williams is an equal opportunity employer that values diversity and inclusion. We are happy to discuss reasonable job adjustments.
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