Turn Iconic Stories into Physical Play as EMEA Product Development Manager!
Are you a product development specialist with a passion for bringing iconic screen characters into the physical world? A tier-1 global media and entertainment studio is seeking an EMEA Product Development Manager for a 13-month contract (Maternity Cover) starting early November.
What’s In It For You
- Competitive Day Rate: Up to £230.77/day (PAYE)
- Location & Hybrid Flexibility: Central London office (Old Street / York Street area) with flexible hybrid working (core day in office on Wednesdays).
- Global Impact: Lead creative product management for high-profile entertainment IP, including direct creative collaboration with a flagship global master toy partner (~70% focus), including international business travel to Denmark.
What You'll Be Doing
- Manage day-to-day hardlines product development (toys, board games, plush, promotional merchandise) across EMEA regions.
- Partner directly with world-class master toy creative teams to inspire, guide, and review product ideation and concept execution.
- Serve as the brand guardian, ensuring external product concepts strictly align with IP rules, legal parameters, and franchise vision.
- Act as the key creative bridge between commercial sales teams, franchise teams, and legal departments, and regional European product development teams.
- Conduct market trend research to visually translate emerging consumer trends into actionable product concepts.
What You’ll Bring
- Proven background in product development or category management within brand licensing (hardlines/toys background preferred).
- Strong creative lens and design literacy (a design degree or practical design background is ideal for “speaking design language,” though this is not a hands‑on graphic design position).
- Assertive and diplomatic communication skills—ability to protect brand guidelines and say “no” constructively to commercial partners.
- Familiarity with Adobe Creative Suite (for reviewing/critiquing artwork) and standard office management tools.
- Availability to start in early November 2026 for a comprehensive 3‑week handover and immediate international travel.
Client Description
A global leader in media and entertainment, known for its diverse portfolio of world-class brands across film, television, and digital platforms. It operates in over 200 countries, making it one of the largest media companies worldwide.
Aquent is dedicated to improving inclusivity & is proudly an equal opportunities employer. We encourage applications from under-represented groups & are committed to providing support to applicants with disabilities. We aim to provide reasonable accommodation for any part of the employment process, to those with a medical condition, disability or neurodivergence.
Other Requirements
This role is open for a limited time. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted ASAP. Application deadline: COB Monday, 7th September 2026
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EMEA Product Development Manager - Toys & Games [AQ-16265] in Brentford employer: Aquent
As a leading multinational technology company, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that values collaboration and innovation. Our London-based team enjoys the flexibility of a hybrid working model, competitive pay, and ample opportunities for professional growth, making it an ideal environment for those looking to make a meaningful impact in the tech industry.
