Global Head of Brand Partnerships

Merlin Entertainments - Corporate; Greater London; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading global entertainment company is seeking a Global Head of Brand Partnerships to lead brand collaborations across iconic attractions. This senior role involves building strategic partnerships that enhance brand equity and guest experiences. The ideal candidate will have proven experience in managing large-scale partnerships and the ability to negotiate complex agreements effectively. A business degree is required, with postgraduate qualifications desirable. Compensation includes competitive salary, bonuses, and various perks.

Benefits

Competitive annual salary

33 days holiday

Annual Merlin Passes

Merlin Magic Pass for attractions

Company bonus

Private pension scheme

Discounts on LEGO and retail

Ongoing training and development

Qualifications

• Proven experience leading large-scale brand partnerships or sponsorships.
• Strong commercial acumen and negotiation of high-value agreements.
• Ability to manage multiple stakeholders across regions and functions.

Responsibilities

• Lead global brand collaboration strategy and partnership lifecycle.
• Ensure partnerships align with brand vision and values.
• Collaborate with Legal, Finance, and Marketing teams.

Skills

Leadership in brand partnerships

Negotiation skills

Stakeholder management

Brand strategy understanding

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Education

Degree in Marketing, Business, or related discipline

Postgraduate qualification

Job description

What you’ll bring to the team

Global Head of Brand Partnerships

Location: London, Arbor

Hours: 37.5 hours per week

Contract Type: Permanent, salaried

Merlin Entertainments is seeking a Global Head of Brand Partnerships to lead world‑class brand collaborations across our global portfolio of iconic attractions. This senior role is responsible for building strategic partnerships that strengthen brand equity, create memorable guest experiences, and support Merlin’s ambition to be the global leader in branded entertainment destinations.

Reporting to the Global Brand Director, Madame Tussauds and Brand Partnerships, you will define and deliver Merlin’s global brand partnership strategy, leading the full partnership lifecycle from identification and commercial negotiation through to activation, performance measurement, and long‑term relationship management.

Working closely with regional, divisional, and central teams, you will deliver impactful activations across attractions and digital platforms, ensuring partnerships align with brand vision, values, and IP requirements. You will collaborate with Legal, Finance, Marketing, and B2B partnership teams to structure agreements, manage rights usage, and ensure strong governance and compliance.

Qualifications & Experience

• Proven experience leading large‑scale brand partnerships or sponsorships within global consumer, media, or entertainment environments, with a strong network of senior contacts.
• Strong commercial acumen and experience negotiating complex, high‑value agreements.
• Demonstrated ability to manage multiple stakeholders across regions and functions.
• Deep understanding of brand strategy, marketing, and consumer engagement.
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to measure and clearly communicate ROI.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Degree in Marketing, Business, or a related discipline; postgraduate qualification desirable.

Benefits

• A competitive annual salary
• 33 days holiday (includes bank holidays)
• ‘Enjoy the Ride’ Merlin Annual Passes – 6 in total per year, 1 for you, plus 5 to gift to loved ones!
• Merlin Magic Pass – 20 free tickets for you, your family and friends to enjoy all of our Merlin Attractions across the world rising to 40 after a year’s service
• Company bonus
• Private pension scheme
• 40% discount online off LEGO
• 25% discount in our on‑site retail shops and restaurants
• Ongoing training and development opportunities
• Plus, many more…

Pay Range

Competitive