Director, Business Development - North America Licensing

Position Overview

The Director, Business Development - North America Licensing is responsible for identifying, negotiating, and securing strategic licensing partnerships globally to expand Perry Ellis International's portfolio of iconic lifestyle brands (including Perry Ellis, Original Penguin, Cubavera, and others).

Reporting directly to the Global President of Licensing, this executive leadership role requires a high-energy dealmaker with an extensive industry network, exceptional financial acumen, and a proven track record of closing multi-year licensing agreements across diverse product categories, geographies, and distribution channels.

This is a full-time, in-office position located at our corporate headquarters in Miami, FL (5 days per week).

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Dealmaking & Partner Acquisition

Additional information

Identify and evaluate white-space opportunities across apparel, accessories, footwear, home, and consumer products globally.

Lead end-to-end business development cycles: prospect identification, pitch deck creation, financial modelling, contract negotiation, and final execution.

Negotiate term sheets and definitive license agreements, securing favorable terms including Minimum Guaranteed Royalties (MGRs), royalty rates, marketing commitments, and distribution rights.

• Portfolio Strategy & Market Expansion

Collaborate with the Global President of Licensing to establish annual growth targets, category strategies, and geographic expansion plans.

Conduct ongoing market analysis, competitive intelligence, and consumer trend research to validate licensing potential in targeted categories.

Identify key international markets and regional distribution partners to drive global brand reach.

• Cross-Functional Alignment & Onboarding

Partner with Brand Marketing, Legal, Design, and Finance teams to ensure seamless onboarding of new licensees.

Work closely with the Legal department to draft, review, and finalize complex licensing contracts and amendments.

Establish clear key performance indicators (KPIs) and business launch plans for all newly signed licensees.

• Financial Modeling & Reporting

Build detailed revenue forecasts, ROI analyses, and deal models for proposed licensing partnerships.

Prepare executive-level presentations, business reviews, and growth projections for senior leadership.

Key Performance Indicators (KPIs)

Total net new licensing revenue generated annually.

Value and quantity of executed contract agreements (MGRs and overall contract values).

Time-to-close on targeted white-space categories.

Successful launch and operational handoff of new licensee partners.

Education & Experience

• Bachelor's Degree in Business, Marketing, Fashion Merchandising, or a related field required (MBA preferred).
• 7+ years of progressive business development and licensing experience within consumer products, apparel, accessories, or brand management.
• Demonstrated track record of identifying, negotiating, and closing high-value licensing contracts with reputable global partners.

Technical & Functional Skills

• Deep knowledge of licensing economics, contract structures, trademark considerations, and retail landscape nuances.
• Superior financial modeling and quantitative skills (expert in Microsoft Excel/Google Sheets).
• Exceptional presentation and pitch capabilities (expert in Microsoft PowerPoint/Keynote).

Behavioral Competencies & Attributes

• Strong Executive Presence: Able to effectively represent Perry Ellis International in high-level negotiations and industry events.
• Driven Dealmaker: Highly proactive, self-motivated, and comfortable operating in a fast-paced environment with aggressive growth targets.
• Negotiation Savvy: Skilled at finding win-win solutions while uncompromisingly protecting brand equity and company profitability.
• Location Expectation: Ability to work full-time on-site in the Miami headquarters (5 days per week).

What's In It For You?

• Comprehensive Health: Premium Medical, Dental, and Vision plans designed to keep you and your family healthy and thriving.
• Financial Security: Secure your future with our 401(k) retirement plan (including a discretionary company match) plus company-provided Basic Life and AD&D Insurance.
• Work-Life Balance: Take the time you need to recharge with generous Paid Time Off (PTO) and a full schedule of paid Holidays.
• Growth & Support: We invest in your potential through our Tuition Reimbursement program for continuous learning and provide 24/7 personal support via our Member Assistance Program (MAP).
• Team Culture: Join a community that celebrates your hard work with regular Associate Engagement Events, ranging from seasonal celebrations to on-site wellness activities.
• Exclusive Style Perks: Look your best for less with generous Associate Clothing Discounts across all our company stores and e-commerce sites.