Director, Business Development - Live Entertainment and Licensing - New Ventures

JOB SUMMARY:

Responsible for identifying, cultivating and securing new partnerships for Live Entertainment and Location Based Entertainment (LBE) that align with the strategic goals and objectives established by the SVP, Live Entertainment & Licensing. Leads deal structuring, and contract negotiations for prospective and renewing partnerships, upholding Universal's standards by sourcing new partner relationships that enhance product quality and guest satisfaction. Collaborates cross-functionally to integrate initiatives seamlessly, drive innovation, elevate guest experiences and optimize business results.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• LBE Strategy Execution:
  • Carryout the plan of the comprehensive growth strategy for the LBE team in accordance with established guidelines.
  • Continuously observe market trends and make recommendations accordingly to improve closure rate of LBE deals.
  • Directs the initial implementation and ongoing execution of signed projects within the Live Entertainment and LBE portfolio, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives before turning the project over to the Account Management team.
  • In conjunction with the finance department, create financial models to support analysis and decision making for prospective partner deals and renewals of existing partnerships Conduct analysis of financial models to determine deal term development and inform negotiation tactics.
  • Negotiate deal terms and contract/agreement in conjunction with legal/business affairs.
  • Conceive, develop and maintain detailed project plans, schedules, and budgets, report to Senior Vice President (SVP) and to ensure timely delivery of project milestones and monitor timelines to address any potential delays promptly.
• Compliance with Universal’s Standards and Quality:
  • Manage all assigned prospective licensed partnership projects, ensuring adherence adhere to Universal's legal requirements and brand standards through regular reviews and audits.
  • Conduct ongoing reviews and audits of existing licensed partners to ensure continued adherence to Universal's legal requirements and brand standards.
• New Business Development Activity:
  • Oversee the day-to-day engagement and relationship development with senior leadership, with key prospective partners and internal stakeholders, necessary to foster open communication and collaboration to drive project success.
  • Acts as a liaison between prospective partners and internal departments to ensure that all requirements are delivered to include feasibility studies, non-disclosure agreements, proformas, communications, and any other responsibility as assigned.
  • Proactively suggest new concepts, ideas and enhancements for UDX to explore as LBE attractions.
• Cross-Functional Collaboration and Leadership:
  • Collaborate with other New Ventures leaders, such as Operations and Food & Beverage (F&B), as required to find efficiencies support initiatives across different business functions.
  • Manage own travel activities to minimize costs and maximize effectiveness, optimizing resource allocation to support project implementation and partner relationship management.
  • Keep stakeholders and leaders within UDX informed of deal progress, milestones and any relevant updates.
• Understand and actively participate in Environmental, Health & Safety responsibilities by following established UDX policy, procedures, training, and team member involvement activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s degree is required; Master’s degree preferred.

EXPERIENCE:

• 10+ years of experience leading a world-class team in the relevant field is required; or an equivalent combination of education and experience.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

• Demonstrates strong leadership and interpersonal skills required to lead a high-performing team.
• Proficient in developing and communicating comprehensive strategy to guide team activities and initiatives.
• Possesses exceptional business acumen with a keen focus on P&L levers and the ability to be resourceful and creative in achieving financial metrics.
• Demonstrates excellent understanding of brand and property positioning, licensing and partner management.
• Demonstrates exceptional communication, organizational and project management skills with a strong ability to collaborate across the business.
• Prior experience working with creative partners, licensed intellectual property and negotiating deals within the entertainment industry is preferred; experience in comparable industries is a plus.
• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Consistent attendance is a job requirement.

Your talent, skills and experience will be rewarded with a competitive compensation package.

Universal is not accepting unsolicited assistance from search firms for this employment opportunity. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at Universal Orlando via-email, the Internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written Statement of Work in place for this position from Universal Orlando HR/Recruitment will be deemed the sole property of Universal Orlando. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by Universal Orlando as a result of the referral or through other means.

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