Sr. Category Manager – Pokémon Licensed Accessories

Ultra PRO International; Commerce (CA); On-site; USD 95,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

Ultra PRO International is seeking an experienced Category Manager for Pokémon Licensed Accessories to lead licensing-driven category growth and performance. You will oversee strategy, development, and cross-functional execution with Licensing, Product Development, Creative, Sales, and Marketing teams to bring compelling licensed accessories to market.

The role requires strong project management, licensing awareness, and the ability to balance brand integrity with commercial results for major

Qualifications

• 5+ years in product management, category management, or licensing
• Experience with licensed products or consumer goods is preferred
• Strong project management and stakeholder management
• Excellent cross-functional communication and collaboration
• Analytical mindset with ability to evaluate performance and opportunities
• Passion for gaming, collectibles, or pop culture is a plus

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute licensed accessory category strategies.
• Lead lifecycle from concept through commercialization with design/engineering.
• Coordinate with licensors to ensure brand alignment and approvals.
• Collaborate with Sales, Marketing, and Creative on positioning and launches.
• Track performance, manage SKU mix, and pursue line extensions.

Skills

Category management

Licensing awareness

Product development

Cross-functional collaboration

Project management

Data-driven decision making

Education

Bachelor's in business/marketing/related field

Tools

Licensing management software

MS Excel

Job description

Ultra PRO is seeking an experienced and strategic Category Manager – Pokémon Licensed Accessories to lead the development, growth, and performance of licensed product categories. This role is responsible for managing accessories tied to major entertainment, gaming, and pop culture properties, ensuring products align with licensor requirements while meeting market demand and company revenue goals. The Category Manager will work cross-functionally with Licensing, Product Development, Creative, Sales, and Marketing teams to bring compelling licensed accessories to market. Success in this role requires strong project management, licensing awareness, and the ability to balance brand integrity with commercial performance.

Category Strategy

• Develop and execute category strategies for licensed accessory product lines.
• Identify growth opportunities within existing licensed properties and propose new product concepts aligned with fan demand.
• Monitor market trends across gaming, entertainment, collectibles, and pop culture to inform product direction.

Product Development

• Lead the lifecycle of licensed accessory products from concept through commercialization.
• Collaborate with design and engineering teams to ensure products meet both functional and brand requirements.
• Manage timelines and coordinate internal stakeholders to ensure timely product launches.

Licensing & Brand Management

• Work closely with licensors to ensure product concepts and designs align with brand guidelines.
• Manage approval processes, ensuring submissions are complete and meet licensor expectations.
• Maintain strong working relationships with licensing partners and internal licensing teams.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Partner with Sales, Marketing, and Creative teams to develop compelling product positioning and launch strategies.
• Provide product knowledge and category insights to support sales initiatives and customer engagement. Coordinate with sourcing and manufacturing teams to ensure products meet quality, cost, and production targets.
• Promote company policies and participate in required company-wide programs as directed.
• Follow all established safety procedure and guidelines at all times.

Category Performance

• Track category performance and analyze sales trends to inform future product decisions.
• Manage SKU assortments and product mix to maximize category profitability.
• Identify opportunities for line extensions, refreshes, and new property integrations.
• Strategic thinker with strong commercial awareness
• Detail-oriented with strong project management discipline
• Ability to navigate licensor approvals and brand requirements
• Collaborative leader who works well across teams
• Passion for fan-driven products and entertainment brands
• Adheres to a strong commitment to higher quality and performance
• Demonstrate good judgment and elevate practical matters to management with an understanding of the job responsibilities and knowledge of how it impacts others and the business operations.

Education/Experience Requisites

• 5+ years of experience in product management, category management, or licensing-related roles.
• Experience working with licensed products, entertainment brands, or consumer goods categories is highly preferred.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously.
• Excellent cross-functional communication and stakeholder management skills.
• Strong analytical mindset with experience evaluating product performance and market opportunities.
• Passion for gaming, collectibles, pop culture, or related enthusiast markets is a plus.