What are the responsibilities and job description for the Manager, Brand Strategy & Integration – UK Project (2-Year Project Hire) position at Universal Orlando Resort?
JOB SUMMARY:
The Manager, Merchandise Brand Strategy & Integration Ops – UK, supports the execution and operational integration of brand and retail strategies for the Universal United Kingdom Theme Park development. This role reports to the Senior Brand Manager and enables cross-functional product creation teams through disciplined planning, governance, facilitation, and coordination across UK Park initiatives.
The position is primarily dedicated to the UK Park development and may provide limited operational support to broader Global Merch & Retail initiatives as capacity allows. As the project progresses toward launch, responsibility will increasingly expand into new business brand planning and launch readiness support.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:
UK Operational Integration
Universal Products & Experiences (UP&E)
At Universal Products & Experiences (UP&E), we transform iconic stories into products and experiences fans can wear, play, collect, and enjoy every day. From the thrilling universe of Jurassic World to the fun of Minions and the timeless magic of Back to the Future, we bring beloved franchises to life far beyond the screen.
Founded in 2016, UP&E combines the energy of a startup with the reach of a global leader. Our mission is bold yet simple: to take imagination beyond the screen through innovative products, immersive retail, and unforgettable theme park experiences. Partnering with world class licensees and creators, we deliver toys, fashion, collectibles, games, and lifestyle products across parks, retail, and digital platforms worldwide.
Creativity, technology, and storytelling are at the heart of everything we do. As part of Universal Destinations & Experiences, you’ll join a collaborative, inclusive global team where every voice matters—helping us be an employer of choice for top talent and a partner of choice for retailers, licensees, and creators. If you’re ready to bring imagination to life and create moments that matter, your adventure starts here.
Join us and help create moments that matter.
https://www.universalproductsexperiences.com/
Universal is not accepting unsolicited assistance from search firms for this employment opportunity. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at Universal Orlando via-email, the Internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written Statement of Work in place for this position from Universal Orlando HR/Recruitment will be deemed the sole property of Universal Orlando. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by Universal Orlando as a result of the referral or through other means.
Universal Orlando Resort. Here you can.
Universal Orlando is an equal opportunity employer. Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2026 Universal Studios. All rights reserved. EOE
The Manager, Merchandise Brand Strategy & Integration Ops – UK, supports the execution and operational integration of brand and retail strategies for the Universal United Kingdom Theme Park development. This role reports to the Senior Brand Manager and enables cross-functional product creation teams through disciplined planning, governance, facilitation, and coordination across UK Park initiatives.
The position is primarily dedicated to the UK Park development and may provide limited operational support to broader Global Merch & Retail initiatives as capacity allows. As the project progresses toward launch, responsibility will increasingly expand into new business brand planning and launch readiness support.
MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:
UK Operational Integration
- Provide operational integration support across UK Park product creation teams. Build, document, and maintain governance tools including RACIs and milestone tracking. Plan, schedule, and facilitate key product development milestone meetings. Track milestones, risks, and dependencies; escalate issues and propose solutions.
- Provide project-based support for UK strategic initiatives and new business development. Support development of brand roadmaps, retail concepts, and third-party partnerships specific to the UK Park. Develop project plans and leadership-ready materials. Coordinate cross-functional inputs and track progress against objectives.
- Maintain integrated calendars and workplans for UK product development. Ensure alignment across global and destination teams. Drive process discipline, documentation standards, and milestone readiness.
- Partner with Franchise and Consumer Insights teams supporting the UK Park. Ensure integration of insights and brand priorities into UK retail planning and execution.
- Provide limited operational support for key Global Merch & Retail initiatives outside of the UK project, as capacity allows.
- Understands and actively participates in Environmental, Health & Safety responsibilities by following established UO policy, procedures, training and team member involvement activities.
- Performs other duties as assigned.
- Bachelor’s degree in business, management, or related field required.
- 7 years in retail operations, product development, strategy, or program management required;
- or a combination of experience and education.
- Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
- Consistent attendance is a job requirement.
- Requires interaction with global partners outside normal/local business hours.
- Experience working with senior leaders and cross-functional teams preferred.
- Experience working across multiple time zones or countries preferred.
Universal Products & Experiences (UP&E)
At Universal Products & Experiences (UP&E), we transform iconic stories into products and experiences fans can wear, play, collect, and enjoy every day. From the thrilling universe of Jurassic World to the fun of Minions and the timeless magic of Back to the Future, we bring beloved franchises to life far beyond the screen.
Founded in 2016, UP&E combines the energy of a startup with the reach of a global leader. Our mission is bold yet simple: to take imagination beyond the screen through innovative products, immersive retail, and unforgettable theme park experiences. Partnering with world class licensees and creators, we deliver toys, fashion, collectibles, games, and lifestyle products across parks, retail, and digital platforms worldwide.
Creativity, technology, and storytelling are at the heart of everything we do. As part of Universal Destinations & Experiences, you’ll join a collaborative, inclusive global team where every voice matters—helping us be an employer of choice for top talent and a partner of choice for retailers, licensees, and creators. If you’re ready to bring imagination to life and create moments that matter, your adventure starts here.
Join us and help create moments that matter.
https://www.universalproductsexperiences.com/
Universal is not accepting unsolicited assistance from search firms for this employment opportunity. All resumes submitted by search firms to any employee at Universal Orlando via-email, the Internet or in any form and/or method without a valid written Statement of Work in place for this position from Universal Orlando HR/Recruitment will be deemed the sole property of Universal Orlando. No fee will be paid in the event the candidate is hired by Universal Orlando as a result of the referral or through other means.
Universal Orlando Resort. Here you can.
Universal Orlando is an equal opportunity employer. Universal elements and all related indicia TM & © 2026 Universal Studios. All rights reserved. EOE