Senior Category Manager, Toys & Hardlines - France & Benelux

This role is a maternity leave replacement, starting in July. You will be responsible for developing and executing a long-term business strategy for the France & Benelux Toys & Hardlines category that leverages the richness of NBCUniversal’s entertainment content to build a sustainable business that achieves annual revenue targets. This role will develop and execute annual growth strategies that leverage the strength of the NBCUniversal’s franchise portfolio, category and consumer priorities. The role will be responsible for identifying the best French, Belgium and Dutch licensees to partner with (not just for its market but for EMEA or even Global), negotiating agreements, driving innovative and quality product ranges, providing France & Benelux specific input into Global deals, accurate quarterly forecasting and promoting retail sell-in of ranges. KEY RESPONSIBILITES Develop category strategies for Toys & Hardlines (including toys, publishing, gaming and stationery) in conjunction with the Regional Director by identifying opportunities and fill gaps by product sub-category, age segment, market channel and franchise. Lead contract negotiations for key licensees, analyse and vet business plans and brand manage to ensure contract deliverables are met. Drive joint business planning with key licensees and retailers to deliver plans. Manage bi-annual top to tops. Licensee base to include regional partners based in France & Benelux. Undertake category analysis and performance via data insights (POS and Circana) and analytics, industry trends, competitors, business opportunities. Curate data led targeted presentations to pitch, support or launch licensing programs. Partner with the PD team to drive quality and champion innovation in local product development. Ensure timely product approvals in line with industry needs. Fiscal responsibility to include annual budget planning and quarterly revenue forecasting Analyse business performance across category by licensee and retailer and develop growth objectives and strategies. Integrate licensee base into cross-category brand and marketing plans in coordination with the Retail & Marketing team. Develop and maintain relationships with key buyers and decision makers across France & Benelux retailers. Develop line and segmentation strategy for key licensees driving innovation and quality Regular attendance of trade shows and social industry functions where applicable – e.g. Nuremberg Toy Fair, Deauville Toy Fair, etc. Collaborate with category teams and UP&E stakeholders - Legal, Finance, GBS to ensure partner optimisation. Accountable for day-to-day management of the Assistant Category Manager, Toys & Hardlines, France & Benelux. Coach, inspire and retain a high performing team setting clear annual objectives and measuring individual performance.