At a Glance
- Tasks: Plan and execute exciting events and pop-up shops across Europe.
- Company: Join a leading gaming company known for its innovative IPs.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, travel opportunities, and a dynamic work environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and to work with iconic franchises.
- Why this job: Be at the forefront of merchandise sales and connect with global fans.
- Qualifications: Experience in business development and event management in gaming.
The predicted salary is between 40500 - 49500 £ per year.
Job Description
The Manager, Direct Sales Global IP and Merchandise (GIP&MD) is responsible for planning and executing events, pop-up shops, as well as the launch of owned stores across European territories.
This role will handle the full-cycle of our merchandise business where it pertains to direct sales.
This includes planning, budgeting, contracting, execution, post-analysis, and continuously improving our direct sales business to maximize growth and sales.
Additionally, they may manage relationships with merchandise vendors, distributors, and retail partners to optimise and enhance business opportunities, specifically when it is necessary to execute Direct Sales related activations and initiatives.
This role will also specifically support event planning and strategy relating to growth opportunities of the Final Fantasy trading card game (FFTCG).
This includes working with internal stakeholders, retailers, and distributors to execute events such as FFTCG organized play.
A highly organized, efficient, and productive leader, this person plays a critical role in building strong connections between Square Enix merchandise with a global audience.
Responsibilities
- Conduct research on direct sales activities of competitors in the video game and IP business within the assigned region and share insights with supervisors to support company profit growth.
- Develop monthly strategic plans to participate and maximize sales at events (conventions, in-store events, FFTCG events), pop-up stores, and owned stores.
- Coordinate with relevant departments and stakeholders to promptly execute approved projects, optimizing operations with a strong sense of urgency.
- Hold regular meetings with Square Enix Japan direct Sales Division to continuously improve operations across regions.
- Plan pop-up shops, develop concepts, prepare proposal materials for Headquarters approval, and present to supervisors.
- Create P&L statements for each project to maximize sales and profit and present to supervisors.
- Analyze past data, formulate hypotheses, study products, and engage in self-development to select appropriate product lineups; also gather new product information from Square Enix Japan planning members.
- Act as the on-site representative, coordinating and responding to stakeholders.
- Obtain multiple vendor quotes, compare conditions, and propose optimal plans to supervisors.
- Coordinate with relevant departments regarding product shipments and take responsibility for successful project execution.
- Conduct research, forecasting, quote requests, and site surveys for future owned store openings.
- Conduct research, forecasting, quote requests, and P&L creation for new event participation in each region.
- Perform post-analysis of executed projects and propose improvements to supervisors.
- Participate in planning and execusion of the UK/EU territory FFTCG organized play.
- KPI's
- Profit contribution
- Volume of projects
- Speed of execution
- Stakeholder satisfaction
- Volume of proposals
- Volume of competitor information
- Customer satisfaction
Qualifications and Skills
- Demonstratable experience in business development within the toy and video game industries.
- Hands-on experience managing events and pop-up shops.
- Extensive knowledge of Square Enix IPs such as FFXIV and FFVII.
- Fluent in both Japanese and English, with bilingual verbal and written communication skills, and the ability to conduct professional interactions and negotiations both internally and externally.
- Strong attention to detail and accuracy, consistently delivering high-quality results under tight deadlines.
- Collaborative team player who contributes effectively to team-oriented environments toward shared goals.
- Proactive and flexible in exploring unfamiliar areas, demonstrating initiative and delivering strong results with minimal supervision.
- Strict adherence to confidentiality regarding sensitive and proprietary information.
- Proficient computer skills, including Microsoft Excel and other business software.
- Deep understanding of internal operations and external trends in the gaming, toy, and IP merchandise industries, with the ability to support informed decision-making aligned with company-wide objectives.
- Flexibility to work outside regular hours to accommodate communication across time zones and event schedules.
- Willingness to travel frequently, both domestically and internationally, for events, research, and meetings.
- Purpose & Values
- Purpose: Creating New Worlds with Boundless Imagination to Enhance People’s Lives.
• Values
- Deliver Unforgettable Experiences
- Embrace Challenges
- Act Swiftly
- Stronger Together
- Continuously Evolve
- Cultivate Integrity
Global IP & Merchandise Direct Sales Manager in London employer: Square Enix
As a Manager in Direct Sales at Square Enix, you will thrive in a dynamic and innovative environment that champions creativity and collaboration. Our commitment to employee growth is evident through continuous training opportunities and a culture that embraces challenges, ensuring you can develop your skills while contributing to exciting projects like the Final Fantasy trading card game. Located in a vibrant European territory, we offer a unique chance to engage with global audiences and make a meaningful impact in the gaming and merchandise industry.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Global IP & Merchandise Direct Sales Manager in London
✨Show Your Creative Side
In marketing communications, standing out is key. Get creative with your application! Consider designing a mini-campaign or pitch that highlights your skills and understanding of the brand. Tailor it for Square Enix and show them what you can bring to the table.
✨Engage in Marketing Communities
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 Square Enix are looking for.
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Use platforms like LinkedIn and Twitter to showcase your passion for marketing communications. Share insights, articles, and your own content that resonates with the industry. Tagging or interacting with Square Enix on these platforms can catch the eye of recruiters and show you're genuinely interested in them.
✨Attend Industry Events
Keep an eye out for marketing conferences and workshops. These are great places to meet potential employers face-to-face and make connections that could land you a full-time role at Square Enix. Bring your business cards and be prepared to chat about how you can contribute!
We think you need these skills to ace Global IP & Merchandise Direct Sales Manager in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
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 Square Enix. Make sure to mention specific campaigns or projects you’ve worked on that showcase your creativity and strategic thinking.
Showcase Your Writing Skills:As you're diving into a marketing communications role, your writing ability is crucial. Include samples of your work, like blog posts, press releases, or social media campaigns in your application. This lets us see your style and how you engage with different audiences.
Tailor Your CV to Marketing:Your CV should highlight relevant marketing skills and experiences! Include specific tools or platforms you’ve used, like Google Analytics or social media management software. Mention any certifications or workshops related to marketing that you've completed – they can give you an edge!
Demonstrate Your Understanding of Square Enix:Show us that you’ve done your homework! In your application, briefly mention what you admire about Square Enix’s marketing approach or any recent campaigns that caught your attention. This can reveal your enthusiasm for the role and your genuine interest in joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Square Enix
✨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 Square Enix will be keen to see how you conceptualise and execute campaigns, so highlight any measurable outcomes to back up your claims.
✨Know Your Digital Tools Inside Out
If you’re heading into a marketing-communications role, make sure you're comfortable discussing key digital marketing tools like Google Analytics, HubSpot, or Hootsuite. Expect some technical questions about how you've used these tools in the past, as they'll want to gauge your hands-on experience and how you analyse data to drive marketing decisions.
✨Be Ready for Scenario-Based Questions
At Square Enix, 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.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Marketing
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.
