Head of Brand Partnerships

Handle is proud to be partnering exclusively with a globally recognised creative brand to find a Head of Brand Partnerships who will lead their next phase of commercial growth through meaningful, standout collaborations. This is a senior role with full ownership of the partnerships function. You'll be responsible for shaping and delivering the global strategy, driving new business opportunities, and building long-term relationships with brand partners. It's a hands-on and highly visible position, working closely with the senior leadership team and leading a small, collaborative partnerships team.

The Role

You’ll take the lead on developing commercial opportunities from the ground up - from creative concepting and pitch development to negotiating deals and delivering multi-channel campaigns. You’ll also play a key role in nurturing existing brand relationships, ensuring they continue to grow and deliver value. This role reports directly into the Chief Commercial Officer and sits within the wider commercial leadership team.

Key Responsibilities will include:

• Define and lead the global brand partnerships strategy in line with business goals
• Build and manage a strong pipeline of brand and licensing opportunities
• Lead creative proposals and tailor-made partnership programmes with internal teams
• Oversee commercial negotiations and manage contracts with support from legal and finance
• Deliver complex, multi-channel campaigns across content, digital, product and PR
• Ensure all partnerships reflect the brand's values, identity, and commercial priorities
• Build and maintain strong relationships with senior stakeholders and brand partners
• Monitor performance and ROI, sharing insights to inform future planning
• Lead post-campaign analysis and reporting across all activity
• Manage and develop the partnerships team, encouraging collaboration and accountability

The ideal candidate will have:

• Significant experience in brand partnerships, licensing, or commercial development
• A strong track record of securing and delivering high-value commercial deals
• Confidence managing negotiations, budgeting, and commercial planning
• Experience working across integrated campaigns spanning media, product, and content
• A hands-on approach and the ability to manage multiple projects at pace
• Excellent communication skills and a natural ability to build trust with clients and partners
• A deep understanding of content-led brand activation and digital campaigns
• Experience working with creative, production, and marketing teams
• A strategic mindset, with attention to detail and a focus on outcomes
• Leadership experience and a collaborative approach to team management

This is a rare opportunity to step into a senior leadership role at a brand that blends creativity, purpose, and commercial success. You’ll be joining a business with a strong identity, a supportive culture, and a clear sense of direction and you’ll play a key role in shaping what comes next!

To find out more or apply send your CV to hannah.keighley@handle.co.uk

Handle actively welcomes applicants from under-represented backgrounds - we pride ourselves on attracting the best talent for every opportunity through a commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion.