At Wizards of the Coast, we connect people around the world through play and imagination. From our genre-defining games like Magic: The Gathering® and Dungeons & Dragons® to our growing multiverse, we continue to innovate and build new ways to foster friendship and connection. That’s where you come in!

The Sr. Manager, Business Development & Program Strategy will spearhead efforts to expand our Retail & Play reach by building innovative partnerships and developing new programs that bring Wizards of the Coast (WOTC) games into diverse environment that build community. This role focuses on sustainably growing the Wizards Play Network (WPN) and our local game store partners, unlocking opportunities in new channels, fostering retailer success with new business capabilities and partnerships, and driving customer and player acquisition and engagement through tailored initiatives.

Key Responsibilities:

Expand Strategic Retail Partnerships

• Identify and build relationships with potential retail & play partners, including independent or specialty retailers, food service spaces (coffee shops, pubs, restaurants), and educational institutions.
• Craft mutually beneficial frameworks that integrate WOTC games and play into these spaces, and find ways to support community building.
• Conceptualize and implement new commercial programs that drive acquisition, engagement, play, and revenue in untapped markets.
• Inform the strategy and development of commercial agreements with channel partners.

Develop Channel-Specific Initiatives

• Create programs tailored to specific sectors that enable fans to interact and play with our products, such as scholastic initiatives for schools and universities, or interactive experiences in food service environments.
• Work collaboratively with internal teams to align these programs with product strategies and audience goals.
• Lead all aspects of attracting new retailers into the WPN by communicating the benefits of membership and providing effective onboarding support.
• Expand our network offerings and capabilities with potential partnerships that support our retailer partners' success.

Team Leadership

• Lead a team of business development specialists, providing guidance, setting objectives, and fostering professional growth.

Performance Tracking and Optimization

• Establish KPIs to measure the success of partnerships and programs, using insights to refine and improve outcomes.
• Report on progress and provide recommendations to senior leadership.

Qualifications:

• 8+ years of experience in business development, strategic partnerships, or channel development, preferably in retail, gaming, or entertainment industries.
• Demonstrated success in creating and managing partnerships with large organizations or across diverse sectors, including developing and informing agreements and contracts.
• Strong leadership abilities, with proven experience managing teams.
• Strategic problem solver with excellent problem-solving and communication skills.
• Experience working in or familiarity with the gaming or entertainment industry, including Magic: The Gathering or Dungeons & Dragons, is a strong plus.

Compensation Range (USD):

Starting: $116,300

Ending: $174,400

We are an Equal Opportunity / Affirmative Action Employer

The above is intended to describe the general content of and the requirements for satisfactory performance in this position. It is not to be construed as an exhaustive statement of the duties, responsibilities, or requirements of the position.

We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. If you are selected to move forward in our application process and need to request an accommodation, please let your recruiter or coordinator know.

In compliance with local law, we are disclosing the compensation range for this role. The range listed is just one component of Wizards of the Coast’s total compensation package for employees. Employees may also be eligible for annual and long-term incentives. In addition, Wizards of the Coast provides a variety of benefits to employees. Here’s a look at what your benefits package may include: Medical, Dental & Vision Insurance, Paid Vacation Time & Holidays, Generous 401(k) match, Paid Parental Leave, Volunteer Program, Employee Giving & Matching Gifts Programs, Tuition Reimbursement, Product Discounts, and more.