At Polaris Inc., we have fun doing what we love by driving change and innovation. We empower employees to take on challenging assignments and roles with an elevated level of responsibility in our agile working environment. Our people make us who we are, and we create incredible products and experiences that empower us to THINK OUTSIDE.

The Licensing Manager role plays a crucial role in driving the growth of the licensing business for the Polaris family of brands, a strategic priority that boosts both EBITDA and brand awareness. As the first dedicated role in this area, this individual will be instrumental in successfully achieving our growth plans by supporting licensing partners and internal stakeholders. The Licensing Manager is responsible for developing and executing licensing strategies to drive revenue growth and enhance brand visibility, while managing relationships with licensing partners and ensuring the delivery of high-quality, brand-appropriate products to the right retail marketplaces.

Strategy Development & Execution

·      Develop a comprehensive licensing strategy in partnership with PG&A and other business units (SBUs) that integrates with channel and category strategy.

·      Lead the execution of licensing strategies to drive revenue growth and brand visibility.

·      Identify, scope and support the shift from internal Polaris spend to Licensee spend where aligned with channel strategy. Embed licensing into product development process (PDP) for consideration as a complement to new product launches.

·      Collaborate with internal teams, including marketing, product development, and sales, to ensure cohesive brand representation.

·      Identify and secure new licensing opportunities that align with the brand's strategic goals.

·      Monitor market trends and competitor activities to identify new licensee opportunities and threats.

Licensing Relationship Management

·      Assist in management of licensee contract development by facilitating dialogue and getting signed agreements between Licensing Agency, Legal and SBU owners.

·      Manage relationships with existing licensing partners to ensure compliance and optimize performance.

·      Negotiate licensing agreements and contracts to ensure favorable terms and conditions.

·      Connect Licensees with internal partners to drive continuous growth of the licensing business. 

Product/Collateral Excellence

·      Direct approval of all retail product, packaging, and marketing materials.  Partner with Licensing Agency, Licensees and internal partners to seek necessary opinions and sign-offs.

·      Oversee the development and launch of licensed products, ensuring they meet brand standards, consumer expectations, and legal compliance.

·      Ensure all licensed products are marketed effectively and reach the appropriate retail channels.

Business Reviews & Budget Management

·      Host quarterly business reviews with Licensing Agency and Polaris Management.  Own preparation for LRP, Budget, Quarterly Reviews and Strategic Plans. 

·      Plan for and track agency spend for tradeshows, T&E vs. budget.  Handle travel approvals, expense verification and payment processing.

·      Track and report on licensing performance metrics, providing insights and recommendations for improvement.

·      Bachelor’s degree in Business, Finance or related field required

·      7+ years of experience in licensing, product management, merchandising, sales or marketing field

·      Proven track record of successfully managing licensing programs and partnerships

·      3+ years of experience developing strategy, including market analysis, brand positioning, and value assessment

·      Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and collaborate with internal and external partners

·      Strong ability to communicate effectively (verbal & written) and build relationships

·      Ability to work collaboratively with cross-functional teams and across a matrixed organization

·      Highly motivated and results-driven, with a proactive approach to achieving goals and driving project completion

·      Proven ability to quickly adapt to new information and changing environments, continuously seeking opportunities to problem-solve, learn and improve (i.e. learning agility)

·      Experience with contract negotiation and contract management

·      Knowledge of retail and distribution channels within the powersports industry is preferred

·      Basic financial acumen and basic knowledge of intellectual property law

·      Proficient in Microsoft Office suite (Excel, Powerpoint, Teams, Word)

·      Fast-paced, dynamic culture in an office environment

·      Based out of Polaris’ Bass Creek office (Plymouth, MN location)

·      No travel needed

·      May need to lift up to 30 lbs on occasion as samples are reviewed

The pay range for Minnesota is $108,000 to $151,000 per year. Individual salaries are determined through a wide variety of factors including but not limited to education, experience, knowledge, skills, and geography.

To qualify for this position, former employees must be eligible for rehire, and current employees must be in good standing.

We are an ambitious, resourceful, and driven workforce, which empowers us to THINK OUTSIDE.  Apply today!

At Polaris we put our employees first, by offering a holistic approach to their health and financial wellbeing.  Polaris is proud to offer competitive compensation, including a market-leading profit-sharing plan that is fundamental to our pay-for-performance culture. At Polaris, employees are owners of the company through company contributions to our Employee Stock Ownership Plan and discounted employee stock purchases plan. Employees receive a generous matching contribution to 401(k), financial wellness education and consultation to plan for their financial future. In addition to competitive pay, Polaris provides a comprehensive suite of benefits, including health, dental, and vision insurance, wellness programs, paid time off, gym & personal training reimbursement, life insurance and disability offerings.  Through the Polaris Foundation and our Polaris Gives paid volunteer time off, we support employees who actively volunteer their time, efforts, and passions to improve the health and wellbeing of the communities in which they live, play and work. Employees at Polaris drive our success and are rewarded for their commitment.

About Polaris

As the global leader in powersports, Polaris Inc. (NYSE: PII) pioneers product breakthroughs and enriching experiences and services that have invited people to discover the joy of being outdoors since our founding in 1954. Polaris' high-quality product line-up includes the Polaris RANGER®, RZR® and Polaris GENERAL™ side-by-side off-road vehicles; Sportsman® all-terrain off-road vehicles; military and commercial off-road vehicles; snowmobiles; Indian Motorcycle® mid-size and heavyweight motorcycles; Slingshot® moto-roadsters; Aixam quadricycles; Goupil electric vehicles; and pontoon and deck boats, including industry-leading Bennington pontoons. Polaris enhances the riding experience with a robust portfolio of parts, garments, and accessories. Proudly headquartered in Minnesota, Polaris serves more than 100 countries across the globe.  www.polaris.com  

EEO Statement

Polaris Inc. is an Equal Opportunity Employer and will make all employment-related decisions without regard to race, color, religion, creed, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, disability, marital status, familial status, status with regard to public assistance, membership or activity in a local commission, protected veteran status, or any other status protected by applicable law. Applicants with a disability that are in need of an accommodation to complete the application process, or otherwise need assistance or an accommodation in the recruiting process, should contact Human Resources at 800-765-2747 or Talent.Acquisition@Polaris.com.  To read more about employment discrimination protection under U.S. federal law, see: Know Your Rights: Workplace Discrimination is Illegal (eeoc.gov).