Junior Category Manager Toys & Hardlines, GAS & Nordics (f/m/d)

You will support the Senior Category Manager, Toys & Hardlines responsible for Germany, Switzerland & Austria (GAS) and Nordics in the development and execution of the category strategies to deliver against targets and fill market gaps in the region. You will also be involved in the management of global, regional and local licensees to grow the business, developing innovative and quality product lines, providing accurate quarterly forecasting and promoting retail sell-in of product ranges. The role will require nurturing deep relationships with your licensee base, gaining understanding of their corporate strategies, identifying and implementing solid growth plans, aligned to Universal franchise, category and consumer priorities. Key Responsibilities Support the Senior Category Manager Toys & Hardlines in developing category strategies by identifying opportunities and fill gaps by product sub-category, age segment, market channel and franchise Undertake category analysis and performance via data insights (POS and Circana) and analytics, industry trends, competitors, business opportunities, threats and market dynamics and develop growth objectives and strategies Curate data led targeted presentations to pitch, support or launch licensing programs Assist with the management of local and regional partners including the coordination of milestone planning of top-to-top meetings, quarterly business reviews and joint-business-planning processes with key partners Partner with the product development team to drive quality and champion innovation in local product development; ensure timely product approvals in line with industry needs Assist with the annual budget planning and quarterly revenue forecasting Foster relationships with key buyers of our main retailers to maximize product listings and exposure of our licensed product and brands at the POS Collaborate with stakeholders across the UP&E organization including category counterparts locally and internationally as well as Franchise, Legal, Finance, Compliance and Creative teams Regular attendance of trade shows and social industry functions where applicable