What are the responsibilities and job description for the Accounts Manager, Partner Operated position at Build-A-Bear?
The Accounts Manager – Partner Operated, manages and grows relationships with a portfolio of experience-based partners: resorts, family entertainment destinations, hospitality brands, and other venues where Build-A-Bear brings joy to consumers outside of traditional retail. This role sits at the intersection of brand partnership, business development, and account management. This role is responsible for expanding Build-A-Bear’s presence in experience-driven environments to co-create solutions that integrate brand, product, and experience as well as fostering long-term, value-driven partnerships
Responsibilities:
- Own strategic relationships with a portfolio of experience-based partners, serving as their primary Build-A-Bear contact and growth advisor
- Develop and execute partner-specific business plans that align Build-A-Bear's brand and product strategy with each partner's guest experience goals
- Lead regular business reviews and executive conversations with senior leadership at partner organizations
- Identify and pursue expansion opportunities within existing partners — new locations, seasonal activations, exclusive offerings, and co-branded experiences
- Collaborate cross-functionally with marketing, merchandising, and operations to deliver seamless, on-brand partner experiences and the opening of new locations with the existing partner.
- Monitor partner performance (invoiced revenue (forecast) & retail sales), track KPIs, and proactively address challenges before they escalate
- Training & Mystery Shop: Liaison with our training department to ensure proper training sessions are delivered and following brand & operational standards
- Share best practices and foster a culture of continuous improvement. Ensure partners adhere to brand guidelines, operational standards, and legal requirements
- Conduct regular audits and reviews to maintain consistency and quality. Address any deviations or risks to brand reputation proactively.
Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree
- 5 years of account management, partnership management, or business development experience - ideally entertainment, hospitality, franchise or family/experiential brands
- Experience working with experience-based or hospitality partners (theme parks, resorts, FECs, attractions, or similar) strongly preferred
- High proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Power BI
- Excellent communication, negotiation, and relationship-building skills
- Executive presence
- Passion for the Build-A-Bear brand and the emotional connection it creates for guests and families
Behavioral Traits for Success:
- Independent, analytical problem solving
- Exceptional depth of expertise
- Methodical, data-driven decision making
- Innovative but practical
- Structured work style
- Thoughtful communicator
- Persistence and ownership of complex work
Working Environment:
- Typical office environment with climate control and sufficient lighting, ergonomic desk/chairs
- Corporate Office located St. Louis, MO
- Some travel required
Your Performance Will Be Measured On:
Your performance will be measured by your ability to achieve annual department objectives and corporate goals which include but are not limited to the following:
- Decision-making, judgment, and execution
- Clear and thorough communication, both spoken and written, with internal and external parties
- Timeliness and follow-up
- Problem solving and removing obstacles
- Planning and organization
- Building strong relationships with cross-functional team members and partner operated account contacts
- Tenacity and commitment to tasks
- Internal and external stakeholder feedback