Managing Director, Licensing Operations

NASCAR•Charlotte, NC

1d•Onsite

About The Position

NASCAR is seeking an experienced Managing Director, Licensing Operations and Business Planning to oversee the operational and financial performance of its licensing business and build the infrastructure, processes, and organizational capabilities needed to support future growth. The role provides strategic and operational leadership across NASCAR's licensing portfolio, partnering with internal stakeholders and licensees to drive commercial performance, financial discipline, and operational excellence. The position is based in Charlotte, North Carolina, and requires up to 20% travel, including weekends, as business needs require. The Managing Director leads licensing business planning and performance, oversees assigned categories and account management teams, strengthens licensee relationships, and develops reporting and operational processes. The role leads and develops staff, partners with teams across the company, and translates long-term licensing strategies into actionable plans. This leadership position offers the opportunity to influence strategic decisions and build the operational foundation for the future growth of NASCAR's licensing business.

Requirements

Bachelor's degree from a four-year college or university.
At least 10 years of progressive experience in licensing, consumer products, retail, or a closely related commercial business, or an equivalent combination of education and experience.
Ability to travel up to 20%, including weekends, as business needs require.
Ability to effectively present information to top management, public groups, and/or boards of directors.
Proficiency with company-provided hardware and software.
Strong executive communication and presentation skills.
Significant experience managing licensing portfolios, commercial partnerships, or consumer products operations.
Demonstrated financial acumen, including budgeting, forecasting, revenue analysis, and business planning.
Experience leading teams and developing managers and emerging leaders.
Proven ability to manage complex cross-functional initiatives and improve operating processes.

Nice To Haves

Experience working with major sports properties, entertainment brands, consumer products companies, or licensing agencies.
Familiarity with royalty structures, licensing agreements, approvals, and intellectual property management.
Experience with retail analytics, e-commerce, or merchandise operations.

Responsibilities

Lead operational and financial performance of NASCAR's licensing business, including revenue growth, forecasting, budgeting, and business planning.
Provide strategic oversight of assigned licensing categories and guide category and account management teams with clear objectives, accountability, and performance expectations.
Manage and strengthen licensee relationships, including business performance reviews, contract renewals, compliance, and issue resolution.
Partner with the Strategic Licensing & Growth team to transition new opportunities into scalable, long-term business partnerships.
Develop revenue projections, royalty forecasts, and business performance reporting to support informed decision-making.
Analyze performance against plan, identify risks and opportunities, and recommend actions to improve results.
Establish and maintain operating rhythms, including business reviews, forecasting updates, performance evaluations, and cross-functional planning processes.
Evaluate and improve licensing systems, reporting tools, workflows, and operational processes to support scalability and efficiency.
Lead, coach, and develop directors and account management personnel; build organizational capabilities through succession planning and professional development.
Partner with Finance, Legal, Brand, Marketing, and other business functions to align priorities and drive business outcomes.
Translate long-term licensing strategies into actionable operational plans and support major negotiations, contract renewals, and enterprise initiatives.
Directly supervise assigned staff, including hiring, development, performance management, and employee engagement.