Senior Design Manager, Toys & Hardlines, Japan

Job description

JOB OVERVIEW: Universal Products & Experiences is seeking a Senior Design Manager with experience in product design and licensing for the Toys and Hardlines team. The role will be based in Tokyo office and is responsible for product approvals, product development and product strategies for mainly Japan with the possibility of additional markets might be added in the future. Universal Products & Experiences team is looking for candidates that are pro-active, forward thinkers and have strong communication skills. The role requires a manager that has experience building strong relationships with internal cross-functional teams and external partners. This position will report directly to Director, Lifestyle/Toys & Hardlines Product & Design. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Licensing & Product Development Serve as a subject matter expert in the entertainment and consumer products licensing business. Manage licensed product development and approval processes, ensuring brand integrity, storytelling alignment, and high-quality execution. Lead product approval meetings and oversee approval workflows, schedules, and system management. Provide strategic guidance on licensor selection and product execution to business and category partners. Design Leadership & Innovation Lead design direction throughout the product development lifecycle, from concept creation through final production. Serve as the design expert for assigned product categories, including materials, construction, technical design, packaging, and branding. Develop compelling presentations and product reviews that effectively communicate design concepts, product features, and development plans. Provide design feedback and approvals aligned with brand guidelines, property priorities, and consumer expectations. Drive product innovation by translating brand vision and consumer insights into differentiated, market-relevant product concepts. Leverage knowledge of licensee design and manufacturing capabilities to optimize product development and execution. Strategy & Team Leadership Lead, coach, and develop team members while fostering collaboration, accountability, and continuous growth. Develop and execute category design strategies that support business objectives and long-term growth. Identify emerging trends, consumer insights, innovation opportunities, and whitespace opportunities across brands and categories. Partner with cross-functional teams to develop new product initiatives and expand existing product lines. Contribute to broader business and organizational strategy discussions. Communication & Collaboration Build and maintain strong relationships with internal stakeholders, licensees, vendors, and senior leadership. Lead complex discussions, secure cross-functional alignment, and remove barriers to successful execution. Facilitate high-impact meetings, establish accountability, and ensure timely follow-through on action items. Communicate regularly with global leadership and provide updates on project status, product development, and strategic initiatives. Basic Requirements: Experience in licensing, consumer products, or manufacturing industries is preferred. Proven people management experience. Experience of leading licensed consumer product design and development in the entertainment industry, from concept through production, including approvals, manufacturing, and commercialization. Native-level proficiency in Japanese; English proficiency preferred. Strong understanding of product category dynamics, consumer trends, and business strategy. Proficiency in Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) and business productivity tools, including Keynote, PowerPoint, Microsoft Office, Adobe Firefly, and Copilot, is a plus. Willing to attend business travels Desired Characteristics: Strong understanding of product category dynamics, consumer trends, and business strategy. Strong communication and presentation skills with the ability to influence stakeholders and drive alignment Strategic thinker who can balance creative excellence with business objectives Proven leadership skills with the ability to mentor, motivate, and develop teams Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to effectively prioritize in a fast-paced environment Collaborative, adaptable, and proactive problem-solver with a strong sense of ownership and accountability As part of our selection process, external candidates may be required to attend an in-person interview with an NBCUniversal employee at one of our locations prior to a hiring decision. NBCUniversal's policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, gender identity or expression, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, membership in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law. If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and require support throughout the application and/or recruitment process as a result of your disability, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation. You can submit your request to . NBCUniversal is one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies. We create world-class content, which we distribute across our portfolio of film, television, and streaming, and bring to life through our global theme park destinations, consumer products, and experiences. We own and operate leading entertainment and news brands, including NBC, NBC News, NBC Sports, Telemundo, NBC Local Stations, Bravo, and Peacock, our premium ad-supported streaming service. We produce and distribute premier filmed entertainment and programming through our powerhouse film and television studios, including Universal Pictures, DreamWorks Animation, and Focus Features, and the four global television studios under the Universal Studio Group banner, and operate industry-leading theme parks and experiences around the world through Universal Destinations & Experiences, including Universal Orlando Resort, home to Universal Epic Universe, and Universal Studios Hollywood. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation. Visit for more information. Our impact is rooted in improving the communities where our employees, customers, and audiences live and work. We have a rich tradition of giving back and ensuring our employees have the opportunity to serve their communities. We champion an inclusive culture and strive to attract and develop a talented workforce to create and deliver a wide range of content reflecting our world. About Universal Products & Experiences (UP&E) At Universal Products & Experiences (UP&E), we transform iconic stories into products and experiences fans can wear, play, collect, and enjoy every day. From the thrilling universe of Jurassic World to the fun of Minions and the timeless magic of Back to the Future, we bring beloved franchises to life far beyond the screen. UP&E has grown rapidly while keeping the energy, agility, and inventive spirit of a start‑up. Our mission is bold yet simple: to take imagination beyond the screen through innovative products, immersive retail, and unforgettable theme park experiences. Partnering with world‑class licensees and creators, we deliver toys, fashion, collectibles, games, and lifestyle products across parks, retail, and digital platforms worldwide. Creativity, technology, and storytelling are at the heart of everything we do. As part of Universal Destinations & Experiences, you’ll join a collaborative, inclusive global team where every voice matters — helping us be an employer of choice for top talent and a partner of choice for retailers, licensees, and creators. If you’re ready to bring imagination to life and create moments that matter, your adventure starts here. Join us and help create moments that matter.