Now Hiring - Apollo Professional Solutions, Inc - Senior Manager - Retail Development in El Segundo, CA

Full description of the position

Senior Manager, Retail Development (Contract) About the Role Creativity, collaboration, and strategic thinking drive everything we do. We are seeking a Senior Manager, Retail Development to support a leading Consumer Products organization by identifying and driving cross-category retail opportunities at major national retailers, including Walmart and Sam 's Club. This contract role plays a critical part in expanding licensed merchandise programs and maximizing brand presence across retail environments. The Senior Manager, Retail Development will work closely with external retail merchants, licensee partners, and entertainment stakeholders, while collaborating cross-functionally with internal teams spanning Franchise, Creative, Sales, Retail Marketing, and Brand Marketing. The position may be based at a corporate headquarters location in Southern California or near the Walmart Home Office in Rogers, Arkansas. Key Responsibilities As a Senior Manager, Retail Development, you will: * Develop and execute retail development strategies that maximize placement of company-owned franchises across Walmart and Sam's Club within licensed consumer product categories (excluding toys). * Build and maintain strong relationships with key retail merchants, licensees, and entertainment partners to drive long-term growth. * Create compelling brand pitch decks, presentations, and storytelling materials, including executive-level and Entertainment Council presentations. * Lead coordination of retail marketing and media campaigns that support cross-category programs, partnering with media agencies and internal teams. * Collaborate with consumer products category leads, licensees, and franchise teams to support product sell-in and coordinate secured cross-category retail space and pallet programs. * Share timely retail updates, insights, and program opportunities with internal stakeholders and external partners. * Partner with commercial sales teams to align cross-category brand strategies, including participation in Joint Business Planning initiatives. * Maintain a deep understanding of retailer corporate strategies, buying structures, and priorities to identify white-space opportunities and develop tailored solutions using owned IP. * Monitor retail trends, consumer shopping behaviors, and industry insights to stay ahead of market shifts and emerging opportunities. * Travel approximately 10% as needed to support retailer meetings, presentations, and strategic initiatives. Qualifications & Experience The ideal candidate brings a strong mix of retail strategy, relationship management, and analytical expertise: * 5+ years of experience in Retail Development, Franchise Development, Consumer Products, or managing top U.S. retail accounts; experience with Walmart and Sam's Club strongly preferred. * Broad knowledge of retail business across multiple merchandise categories, including hardlines and softlines; licensing experience is a plus. * Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to influence both internal teams and external partners. * Proven presentation and analytical skills, with experience delivering polished materials to senior stakeholders. * Strong organizational and project management abilities, with exceptional attention to detail and the capacity to manage multiple initiatives simultaneously. * Collaborative, relationship-driven professional with the ability to work effectively across functions and with senior leadership. * Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and Adobe Acrobat. * Demonstrates a growth mindset, curiosity, and a commitment to continuous learning and professional development. Why This Role This is a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on retail growth strategies at some of the largest retailers in the U.S., while working cross- functionally in a fast-paced, high-visibility environment. If you thrive at the intersection of retail strategy, brand development, and collaboration, this contract role offers both challenge and influence. WCH Job Types: Full-time, Contract Pay: $60.00 - $112.00 per hour Expected hours: 40 per week Benefits: * 401(k) * Dental insurance * Health insurance * Vision insurance Work Location: In person