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THE ROLE
At Debenhams Group, we\'re rewriting the rules of retail. We move fast, think boldly, and embrace innovation at every level. Change is constant here and that\'s exactly how we like it. If you thrive in high-growth environments, get excited by new challenges, and want to make a tangible impact on a brand with global reach, this is your stage.
We’re looking for a dynamic and commercially savvy Head of or Director of Licensing, someone who can not only see opportunity, but seize it. This is a senior leadership role requiring strategic agility, sharp commercial instincts, and the confidence to influence at the highest levels.
This role can be based out of our central Manchester or Soho, London office.
WHAT YOU\'LL BE DOING
As our Head of Licensing, you’ll own and evolve the Group’s licensing strategy, driving revenue and brand growth through world-class partnerships and bold market plays. You’ll act as a key ambassador for the Debenhams brand, working cross-functionally and externally with senior stakeholders, collaborators, and licensees.
- Define and deliver a future-facing global licensing strategy aligned with Debenhams\' brand and business goals.
- Drive new brand licensing and inward collaboration deals across targeted global markets.
- Identify and negotiate high-impact licensing agreements with new partners — always with brand integrity and growth front of mind.
- Manage and nurture relationships with current licensees to ensure mutual commercial success and contractual compliance.
- Work closely with senior leaders across marketing, design, legal, and finance to bring category-expanding opportunities to life.
- Oversee the brand approval process for licensed products and collaborations, ensuring flawless brand representation.
- Stay ahead of market trends, identifying white space, emerging categories, and innovative brand partnerships.
- Track, analyse, and report on licensing performance, providing actionable insights and forward-looking recommendations.
WHAT WE LOOK FOR
Your Skills, Knowledge and Experience
- Extensive experience leading licensing within the fashion, lifestyle, or consumer brand space.
- A proven track record of executing complex, high-value licensing deals that drive brand equity and commercial success.
- Exceptional stakeholder management skills, with the gravitas to influence senior internal and external decision-makers.
- A strategic mindset combined with hands-on commercial acumen.
- Strong negotiation, communication, and presentation skills.
- A creative eye for brand alignment and product opportunity.
- A results-driven, agile approach, with the confidence to lead in ambiguity and pace.
WORKING WITH US
At Debenhams Group we thrive on change, innovation, and pace. Every challenge is an opportunity, and every day is a chance to push boundaries. If you’re someone who embraces the unknown, thrives in a fast-moving, high-growth environment, and is ready to shape the future of retail, you’ll love it here. We want visionaries, disruptors, and doers—people who bring fresh thinking, relentless energy, and the drive to make an impact.
WHY JOIN US
Our mission is to create a workplace where everyone is respected, their individual differences are valued, and they can be themselves at work without exception.
2025 is a year for making bold moves, delivering real results, and driving forward with unstoppable momentum. If that excites you, then you belong at Debenhams Group.
Let’s lead the change together.
Benefits Include: (subject to level and eligibility)
- Highly competitive bonus scheme, company pension, share schemes, private medical cover, and life assurance
- Access to an on-site gym (Techno Equipment) and free weekly yoga and fitness classes
- 40% discount across four brands and 20% off at Debenhams
- A comprehensive wellbeing package to support your health and lifestyle
- Some of our offices are dog-friendly, so your furry friend can join you at work
- Ongoing learning and development opportunities with great internal career progression
- On-site canteen serving breakfast, lunch, snacks, and hot drinks daily
- Free season ticket loan
Seniority level
Seniority level
Director
Employment type
Employment type
Full-time
Job function
Job function
Sales, Business Development, and Project ManagementIndustries
Retail Apparel and Fashion, Technology, Information and Internet, and Retail
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#J-18808-LjbffrLicensing Director in London employer: Debenhams Group
At Debenhams Group, we pride ourselves on fostering a dynamic and innovative work environment where every employee is empowered to make a meaningful impact. With competitive benefits including a generous bonus scheme, comprehensive wellbeing support, and ongoing professional development opportunities, our Manchester and London offices offer a vibrant culture that embraces change and encourages personal growth. Join us to be part of a forward-thinking team that values creativity, collaboration, and the drive to lead the future of retail.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Licensing Director in London
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Get involved in local or online marketing communications groups. Check out platforms like Meetup for events and workshops. Networking here can lead to hidden job openings and valuable insights into the industry trends—this is where we often discover what companies like Debenhams Group are looking for.
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Craft an Impactful Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Focus on your passion for marketing communications and how your previous experiences can benefit Debenhams Group. Make sure to mention specific campaigns or projects you’ve worked on that showcase your creativity and strategic thinking.
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How to prepare for a job interview at Debenhams Group
✨Showcase Your Creative Campaigns
Get ready to flaunt your portfolio! Include examples of previous marketing campaigns you've worked on, especially those that showcase your creativity and strategy. Recruiters at Debenhams Group will be keen to see how you conceptualise and execute campaigns, so highlight any measurable outcomes to back up your claims.
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At Debenhams Group, they may throw some scenario-based questions your way, aimed at testing your problem-solving skills in real-life marketing situations. Think through potential challenges you’ve faced, how you navigated them, and be prepared to discuss your thought process and outcome.
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As you’re applying for a full-time position, show that you're not just looking for a job, but a career in marketing. Talk about the latest trends in marketing communications, your favourite campaigns, and why they inspire you. Your enthusiasm can really make you stand out and demonstrate that you’re committed to growing within the field.
