Associate Product Manager - Digital Games & Esports

SUMMARY: Overview of the position.
We are looking for someone to conceptualize, develop and maintain Upper Deck’s product portfolios created under our video game, eSports, and entertainment trading card categories. This will require the creation of unique and innovative products that fall in line with the company's goals. Products will span across wholesale, retail, hobby and most importantly, ePack digital distribution channels.
Working with the department’s Director of Game Development and Brand Manager, this person will help to establish external licensing and business relationships for strategy and product approvals. They will also assist in the preparation and presentation of business/product/marketing strategies and financial costing reports.
ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES: General overview of key responsibilities, but other duties may be assigned.

• Communication: Responsible for keeping the Company up to date with ranging developments. Liaison with other departments. Recommends, communicates, and coordinates launch strategies and calendars, license acquisitions, product promotions, sales, etc. Provides initial direction on layout and art design.
• Product Development: Using industry knowledge, and in conjunction with guidelines set forth by internal and external parties, conceptualizes and manages the development of a wide portfolio of trading card products. Products will be customized to meet a wide variety of channel distribution demands. Knowledge of current market trends is imperative in this development process. Must understand value drivers of the secondary market and monitors appropriate channels to uphold product integrity. Key responsibilities include design development, milestone schedules, financials, license approvals, delivery timelines, and solicitation materials.
• Marketing, Advertising and Promotion: Provides input into Marketing/Advertising/PR campaigns in line with corporate strategies and initiatives or other activities as designated. Attends regional Sales and Distributor meetings and Trade Shows to communicate product plans and strategies.
• Licensed Property Portfolio Management: Assists in providing product portfolio management of licensed properties. Works with Executive Team, Sales, and Legal to support selection and evaluation of prospective video game, eSports, and entertainment focused licenses. Conducts research for viable new video game, eSports, and entertainment focused licenses as well as renewal of existing contracts. Anticipates, identifies, and capitalizes on video game, eSports, and entertainment market industry trends.

EDUCATION/YEARS EXPERIENCE:

• 5+ years of experience in sports and entertainment trading cards.
• 2+ years of experience in the video game / eSports industry
• Bachelor's Degree (preferred, not required)

KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:

• Ability to travel domestically and internationally on behalf of the Company.
• Ability to effectively communicate with internal and external parties, professional demeanor, team player.
• Exceptional organizational skills with ability to manage multiple, high priority projects with attention to detail.
• Proficient in MS Office with advanced expertise in Excel.
• Familiarity with eSports and the associated digital games.
• Superior interpersonal, leadership, negotiating, consulting, presentation, analytical and problem-solving abilities.
• Hands on, energetic, motivated self-starter.
• Avid video game player with the ability to identify trends in the industry.
• General understanding of sports and entertainment trading card market.