Director Retail Business Development
About the job
- At least 10 years of experience in business development, commercial partnerships, licensing, or related commercial leadership roles.
- Proven experience developing and executing licensing strategies and negotiating commercial licensing agreements.
- Demonstrated experience working with retailers within the fashion and entertainment sectors.
- Strong understanding of the DACH retail, licensing, and consumer products landscape.
- A proven track record of identifying, negotiating, and closing complex commercial partnerships.
- Fluency in English and German.
- Willingness to travel as required.
- Develop and execute the regional commercial growth strategy across DACH.
- Identify opportunities for market, category, and brand expansion across new channels and territories.
- Develop and secure licensing, strategic partnership, retail, and Direct-to-Retail opportunities.
- Build and manage strategic relationships with key retailers, licensees, distributors, and partners.
- Lead the development of strategic retail relationships and identify opportunities to expand distribution and brand presence.
- Act as the primary commercial relationship owner for key regional partners.
- Work cross-functionally with Brand, Marketing, Finance, Legal, and Brand Operations to develop and execute commercial opportunities.
- Negotiate and close commercial agreements that deliver sustainable revenue and long-term brand value.
- Monitor market and consumer trends to identify new growth opportunities and inform regional strategy.
- Own regional revenue targets, forecasts, and KPIs, ensuring commercial objectives are achieved.
- Represent Authentic at key industry events and meetings, strengthening its commercial presence across DACH.
- Own regional revenue targets, commercial forecasts, KPIs, and regular business reviews to ensure performance objectives are achieved.
About the company
Authentic Brands Group acquires the intellectual property of established consumer, lifestyle, and entertainment brands and licenses it to manufacturers, distributors, and retailers worldwide. It uses an asset-light model, not owning stores or inventories, and earns royalties and minimum guarantees through multiyear licensing agreements. Its portfolio includes brands across fashion, sports, and entertainment such as Reebok, Brooks Brothers, Forever 21, Juicy Couture, Barneys New York, Marilyn Monroe, Elvis Presley, and Muhammad Ali. Its goal is to grow and monetize iconic brands by strengthening brand identity, marketing, and strategic partnerships rather than running physical retail operations.
Company Size
501-1,000
Company Stage
Private
Total Funding
$1.4B
Headquarters
New York City, New York
Founded
2010
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Simplify's Take
What believers are saying
- Reuters reported October 1, 2026, ABG pursued Mattel at over $6 billion.
- ABG launched OBSN with Steven Bartlett on September 14, 2026, targeting $400 million.
- ABG expanded Lee, Champion, and OVO partnerships throughout September 2026.
What critics are saying
- OVO's C$5.0 million unpaid-obligation fight hit Ontario and British Columbia courts in 2026.
- Tristate's July 22, 2026 loss over Nautica and Spyder terminations keeps royalties contested.
- A failed Mattel pursuit would highlight ABG's dependence on aggressive acquisition financing.
What makes Authentic Brands Group unique
- ABG monetizes consumer IP through licenses, not stores, preserving capital and scaling royalties.
- Its 50-plus-brand portfolio spans Reebok, Guess, Dockers, Lee, and entertainment likenesses.
- ABG's partner network spans 1,900 licensees across 150 countries, creating global reach.
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Benefits
- Flexible Work Hours
- Remote Work Options
- Paid Vacation
- Paid Holidays
- Health Insurance
- 401(k) Retirement Plan
- Stock Options
- Company Equity
- Professional Development Budget
- Conference Attendance Budget
- Mentorship Program
- Wellness Program