Lead, Product Licensing Manager – Global Product Licensing at Nike in Beaverton, Oregon

About Nike

Nike is the world's leading sports brand, empowering athletes and consumers through innovative footwear, apparel, equipment, and accessories. Headquartered in Beaverton, Oregon, Nike's Global Product Licensing team drives strategic partnerships that bring brand-right products to market worldwide. As a leader in the industry, Nike combines cutting-edge design, consumer insights, and global reach to redefine athletic performance and style.

Role Overview

The Lead, Product Licensing Manager – Global Product Licensing role is pivotal in shaping Nike's long-term trademark licensing strategy across footwear, apparel, equipment, and accessories. Based in Beaverton, Oregon, you'll collaborate with internal teams like Category, Design, Brand, Legal, Finance, and Geo/Territory groups, as well as external licensees, to deliver innovative, consumer-obsessed products. This full-time position demands a strategic leader who thrives in a fast-paced, matrixed environment, upholding the highest brand standards while driving growth through complex partnerships.

Key Responsibilities

Product & Partner Leadership

Lead licensee product creation teams to develop assortments that perfectly align with Nike's category and brand strategies. Approve seasonal product strategies, coach partners on briefing, line planning, and tools, and manage the full sample process including gate meetings. Maintain deep expertise in product lines to inform strategic decisions and track high-priority projects as a key partner to Business Directors.

Category & Functional Alignment

Align Nike Category teams with licensee partners on critical elements like consumer targets, brand positioning, assortment direction, and distribution strategies. Manage high-profile initiatives tied to brand moments, innovation platforms, and collaborations to ensure seamless execution.

Cross-Functional Partnerships

Work closely with Design and Brand leaders on functional aspects such as color, print, materials, tech development, naming, packaging, and cataloging. Partner with Product Safety, Tech Development, Materials, Packaging, and Brand Marketing teams to maintain rigorous quality, safety, and brand standards. Ensure consistent messaging and alignment across retail and digital consumer experiences.

Qualifications & Requirements

To succeed in this role, candidates need a Bachelor's degree in business management, product management, merchandising, or a related field—or an equivalent combination of education, experience, and training. Require 6+ years of relevant experience with strong knowledge of product creation, merchandising, franchise management, and consumer insights.

Key soft skills include proven ability to lead, influence, and inspire cross-functional teams; excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills; navigating ambiguity while managing multiple priorities; exceptional attention to detail and organization; demonstrated relationship-building; phenomenal product eye and style sensibility; and willingness to travel up to 25%.

Benefits & Perks

Nike offers a premium compensation package for this leadership role, including an estimated salary range of $140,000 - $200,000 USD annually, based on Retail/Tech sector benchmarks with a buffer for top talent. Additional perks include comprehensive health benefits, 401(k) matching, generous PTO, employee product discounts, onsite fitness centers, and flexible work options at the Beaverton campus.

Career Growth

At Nike, career progression is fueled by innovation and impact. As a Lead Product Licensing Manager, you'll gain exposure to global strategies, high-stakes partnerships, and executive leadership. Nike invests in professional development through training programs, mentorship, and internal mobility, positioning you for advancement into senior licensing, merchandising, or category management roles.

Why Join Us

Joining Nike's Global Product Licensing team means contributing to a fast-growing, entrepreneurial group that shapes the future of the brand. Work on brand moments and collaborations that reach millions worldwide, in a collaborative culture that values consumer obsession, creativity, and excellence. Beaverton, Oregon, offers an inspiring Pacific Northwest lifestyle with proximity to outdoor adventures and urban amenities.

Role FAQs

What is the travel requirement for this role?

Up to 25% travel to meet with licensees and internal partners globally.

What experience level is required?

6+ years in product licensing, merchandising, or related fields, with leadership in cross-functional environments.

Is this a hybrid or onsite role?

Primarily onsite in Beaverton, Oregon, with potential flexible arrangements per Nike policy.

How does Nike support work-life balance?

Through generous PTO, wellness programs, family leave, and employee assistance resources.

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