Licensing & Retail Manager

About the Role

The Netball World Cup Sydney 2027 (NWC2027) is seeking an experienced Licensing & Retail Manager to lead the development and delivery of the event’s Licensing & Retail Program. This role plays a key part in commercialising the NWC2027 brand through high‑quality, innovative products that enhance fan engagement and generate strong commercial returns.

Reporting to the General Manager – Revenue & Experience, the Licensing & Retail Manager will oversee the licensing strategy, product development, supplier/retailer partnerships, and operational planning to ensure a world‑class merchandise program ahead of and during the tournament.

More specifically you will:

• Develop and implement the NWC2027 Licensing & Retail Strategy aligned with commercial objectives.
• Identify product opportunities across apparel, merchandise, collectables and digital categories.
• Lead the relationship with the event’s licensed retail partner, ensuring seamless collaboration and delivery.
• Manage licensee and retailer relationships, approvals, timelines, brand compliance, and product quality.
• Support the commercialisation and integration of the Tournament Mascot.
• Work with internal teams across marketing, operations, venues, and legal to ensure coordinated planning and execution.
• Oversee retail planning including online stores, venue outlets, pop‑ups, logistics, and on‑site operations.
• Monitor financial performance, royalties, budgets, revenue forecasts and reporting.
• Maintain strong governance practices including IP protection, compliance, sustainability and risk management.
• Support event‑time merchandise operations and licensee activation requirements.

What Sets You Apart

• 5+ years’ experience in licensing, merchandise, retail or consumer products.
• Experience in major events, sport, entertainment or large-scale retail environments.
• Strong commercial acumen with proven capability in contract negotiation and budget management.
• Knowledge of intellectual property, brand governance, manufacturing and supply chain processes.
• Excellent communication, relationship management and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Strong planning and organisational skills with the ability to manage multiple projects.
• Alignment with a collaborative, inclusive and values‑led culture.

Ways of Working

• Hybrid/Flexible during operational phases; mandatory onsite presence during readiness and tournament period.
• Collaborative, values led culture aligned with athlete first and fan-centred principles.
• Commitment to diversity, equity, inclusion, wellbeing and psychologically safe workplaces.

Ready to make history?

Join us and help deliver a world-class event that will inspire millions.