Head of Distribution and Licensing in Manchester

Castore exists for one single reason – to make athletes better. Our ethos is built upon the philosophy of BETTER NEVER STOPS, an ideal deeply infused in our DNA and something we strive to live every single day. We utilise advanced engineering and unique technical fabrics to create the highest quality sportswear in the world for athletes who demand the very best. Designed with a passion for innovation with specialist features to help to optimise athletic performance in all conditions. The founders’ vision is to build Castore into a brand respected across the globe for a deep and unrelenting commitment to engineering the highest quality sportswear in the world, with no stone left unturned in its search for innovation and performance enhancement. The sportswear market has been dominated by a small clique of mass-market brands and the vision is for Castore to be a premium alternative to these, the natural brand of choice for discerning athletes who demand the very best.

The Role

The Head of Distribution and Licensing will be responsible for leading and optimising our global distribution and brand licensing strategy, ensuring efficient, scalable, and customer-centric delivery of products across all channels. This role will oversee third-party distribution network, order book management, stakeholder coordination and licensing of both the Castore and Belstaff brands in key categories, playing a critical role in supporting commercial growth and operational excellence.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership
  • Develop and execute a global distribution strategy aligned with commercial objectives.
  • Lead cross-functional initiatives to optimise sales performance, improve delivery performance, cost efficiency, and scalability.
  • Develop and execute an effective brand licensing strategy for both Castore and Belstaff brands in key categories and markets.
• Sales Growth Objectives
  • Define and deliver distribution strategies that support revenue growth across wholesale, retail, and e-commerce channels in markets of strategic importance.
  • Identify and unlock new market opportunities through strategic distribution and licensing partnerships.
  • Collaborate with commercial teams to forecast demand, align inventory availability, and maximise sell-through.
  • Monitor and report on sales performance across distributed channels, driving continuous improvement and maximising revenue opportunities.
• Internal Collaboration
  • Act as a key liaison with internal Operations and Merchandising teams to ensure alignment on product flow, timelines, and inventory planning.
  • Support Go-To-Market planning by coordinating distribution readiness across internal and external stakeholders.
• Network Coordination
  • Build and coordinate a high-performing network team across multiple geographies.
  • Foster a culture of accountability, continuous improvement, and collaboration.
• Performance & Analytics
  • Monitor KPIs such as OTIF (On-Time In-Full), inventory turnover, and delivery accuracy.
  • Use data-driven insights to identify opportunities for improvement and innovation.
• Sustainability & Innovation
  • Drive initiatives to reduce environmental impact across distribution operations.
  • Explore and implement innovative solutions such as automation, AI, and green logistics.
• Partner & Vendor Management
  • Lead the relationship with external distribution partners, including quarterly business reviews (QBRs), stock management, commercial negotiations, and invoicing.
  • Negotiate contracts and service level agreements to ensure high performance and cost-effectiveness.

Skills & Experience

• Proven experience in a senior distribution role, ideally within the apparel or sporting goods or consumer goods sector.
• Evidence a rich network of distributors globally and an embedded experience of managing distribution partnerships.
• Proven track record of sales growth through brand distribution and licences in targeted geographies.
• Demonstrate an excellent understanding of licensing established brands in new markets and categories.
• Experience managing 3PLs and international distribution networks.
• Excellent leadership, negotiation, and stakeholder management skills.
• Analytical mindset with proficiency in supply chain systems and performance metrics.
• Passion for sport, innovation, and sustainability.

What We Offer

• Competitive salary
• Discretionary bonus scheme
• 25 days annual leave (plus bank holidays)
• Modern city centre office in Manchester
• An opportunity to work with global sporting partners
• Office breakout space with pool tables, dart board and TV’s
• A chance to build a career with a fast paced, high growth brand
• Employee assistance programme
• Generous staff discount