Account Director – NBA Licensed Merchandise (Non‑Apparel), Europe

The role

The Account Director will lead commercial strategy, sales execution, and account development for NBA-licensed non-apparel merchandise across Europe. This role manages relationships with major big-box and specialist retailers to drive revenue growth and expand distribution.

What you will do

• Develop and execute the European sales strategy for NBA-licensed non-apparel categories.
• Achieve annual revenue, margin, and distribution targets.
• Identify new retail opportunities and market gaps across Europe.
• Serve as the primary commercial lead for big-box and specialist retailers.
• Lead joint business planning and quarterly business reviews with accounts.
• Negotiate pricing, terms, promotions, and distribution agreements.
• Collaborate with product development and licensing teams on assortments.
• Guide forecasting, demand planning, and inventory management.
• Develop retailer-specific activation plans including in-store displays and digital campaigns.
• Represent the company at trade shows, distributor meetings, and NBA-related events.

Required qualifications

• 7–10+ years of commercial experience in consumer products, licensing, sporting goods, toys/collectibles, or related categories.
• Proven success managing major European retailers, including Amazon, big-box and specialist accounts.
• Strong negotiation skills.
• Track record of delivering revenue and margin growth.
• Deep understanding of European retail landscapes and consumer behaviour.
• Ability to travel across Europe as required.

Nice to have

• Experience working with licensed brands or entertainment IP
• Passion for basketball, sports culture, or entertainment licensing

About the company

BDA is a global Merchandise Agency. For more than four decades they have promoted a vibrant and welcoming culture for iconic brands to tell their story through merchandise.