Senior Manager Content Licensing Digital Business

Sony Pictures; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 800 000 - 1 200 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading media company is seeking a Senior Manager of Content Licensing in Gauteng, South Africa. The role focuses on negotiating complex content deals, developing relationships with key stakeholders, and identifying monetization opportunities in both Indian and international markets. Ideal candidates should have 8–12 years of experience in content licensing, a strong educational background in media or business, and a proven track record in deal-making. Join a dynamic team dedicated to creating an inclusive workplace.

Qualifications

• 8–12 years in Content Licensing or related fields.
• Proven track record of high-value content deals.
• Experience with Indian and international content markets.

Responsibilities

• Lead negotiations and structure complex deals.
• Identify and capitalize on monetization trends.
• Build strong relationships with key stakeholders.
• Stay informed about industry trends.

Skills

Content Licensing

Negotiation

Business Development

Client Relationship Management

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Media, Mass Communication, Business Administration or related field

MBA/PGDM with a commercial focus

Job description

Career Opportunities: Senior Manager - Content Licensing, Digital Business (3385)

Requisition ID3385-Posted -Digital (0008)-1003

Purpose / Job Summary

We are seeking a strategic and results-driven Senior Manager of Content Licensing to serve as the architect of our content monetization journey across both Indian and International markets. This role requires a sophisticated negotiator capable of bridging the gap between the fast-paced "speed-to-market" culture of Indian media and the rigorous, complex legal and compliance standards of global broadcasters and OTT platforms. You will be responsible for maximizing the lifecycle value of our Intellectual Property (IP) through high-stakes deal-making in a rapidly evolving media landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• High-Stakes Negotiations & Deal Structuring: Lead the end-to-end commercial process, from initial pitch to the execution of complex agreements with global streaming giants and traditional broadcasters.
• Strategic Business Development: Identify and capitalize on emerging monetization trends across the global media landscape, including Linear TV, OTT, and Digital platforms.
• Territory Expansion: Strategize and execute market entry into new international regions, navigating diverse regulatory environments and market nuances.
• Client Relationship Management: Build and maintain strong, long-lasting relationships with key stakeholders and decision-makers in target organizations worldwide.
• Product Knowledge: Possess a deep understanding of our content library and licensing models to effectively articulate the value proposition to potential partners.
• Market Analysis: Stay informed about industry trends, competitive activities, and market shifts to identify new opportunities and inform our business strategy.
• Reporting: Accurately forecast sales, track pipeline activity, and report on key performance metrics to leadership.
• Collaboration: Work cross-functionally with legal, marketing, and content teams to ensure client needs are met and new licensing opportunities are aligned with company goals.
• Rights Management & Compliance: Ensure all deals adhere to rigorous legal standards, protecting the company's IP assets while maintaining the agility required for content distribution.

Required Qualifications & Skills

• Experience: 8–12 years in Content Licensing, Syndication, acquisition, or partnerships within the media, OTT, or entertainment industry.
• Proven track record of negotiating and closing high-value content deals.
• Exposure to both Indian and international content markets is essential.
• Deep understanding of licensing models (output deals, syndication, digital rights, etc.) and experience managing content budgets.
• Market Knowledge: In-depth understanding of the Indian media ecosystem and a proven track record of closing deals with international players.
• Negotiation Prowess: Ability to remain composed, strategic, and influential during high-pressure negotiations and complex deal-making.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Media, Mass Communication, Business Administration, or a related field. An MBA/PGDM with a commercial focus is highly preferred.

Position Interlinkages

• Internal: Works closely with Business Strategy, Legal, Finance, and Programming teams.
External: Engages with external production houses, studios, distributors, and content partners globally.
• Reporting Line: Reports to the Head of Content Licensing.

Business/Function

Digital Business

Why join us?

Sony Pictures Networks is home to some of India’s leading entertainment channels such as SET, SAB, MAX, PAL, PIX, Sony BBC Earth, Yay!, Sony Marathi, Sony SIX, Sony TEN, Sony TEN1, SONY Ten2, SONY TEN3, SONY TEN4, to name a few! Our foray into the OTT space with one of the most promising streaming platforms, Sony LIV brings us one step closer to being a progressive digitally-led content powerhouse. Our independent production venture- Studio Next has already made its mark with original content and IPs for TV and Digital Media. But our quest to Go Beyond doesn’t end there. Neither does our search to find people who can take us here. We focus on creating an inclusive and equitable workplace where we celebrate diversity with our Bring Your Own Self Philosophy and are recognised as a Great Place to Work. - Great Place to Work Institute- Ranked as one of the Great Places to Work for since 5 years - Included in the Hall of Fame as a part of the Working Mother & Avtar Best Companies for Women in India study- Ranked amongst 100 Best Companies for Women In India - ET Human Capital Awards 2021- Winner across multiple categories - Brandon Hall Group HCM Excellence Award - Outstanding Learning Practices.