JOB SUMMARY:

The Manager, Product Lifecycle Management & Implementation leads the design, integration, and implementation of future state product creation, design/creative, development, and assortment planning processes and tools (PLM + upstream assortment), ensuring they integrate with merchandising, Global Merch Partners, planning, sourcing, finance, and supply chain.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Own End-to-End PLM Workstream Delivery
  • Define and manage scope, roadmap, milestones, and resourcing for the PLM/product workstream within the overall program.
  • Run regular workstream forums and reviews (risks, open issues, critical dependencies, and design checkpoints) and provide clear reporting to the central PMO.
• Process Design (Concept → Launch)
  • Map current state processes for concepting, design, tech pack creation, sampling, costing, approvals, and line build; identify gaps and pain points.
  • Design future state workflows across the four PLM phases (concept, development, production, launch), including hand-offs to Merch Planning and Supply Chain.
  • Define standard templates (BOMs, tech packs, line sheets), status frameworks, and stage gate criteria for product decisions.
• Data, Templates, & Governance
  • Define product data standards and attributes needed for design, compliance, sustainability, pricing, planning, and reporting (e.g., collection, IP, fabrication, theming).
  • Set governance for item creation in PLM: who creates, who approves, and when data is deemed “planning/ordering ready.”
  • Align product structures and attributes with downstream merchandise hierarchy and inventory planning structures.
• Solution & Integration Design
  • SME for requirements and solution design workshops with Design, Creative, Product Development, Merch, Planning, Sourcing, and QA.
  • Translate business needs into functional designs and integration requirements (PLM → Merch/Planning, PLM → ERP/Sourcing, PLM → DAM/creative tools).
  • Ensure PLM configuration (workflows, roles, forms, libraries) adheres to vendor best practices and supports scalability.
• Testing, Cutover, & Hypercare
  • Own PLM-related test strategy: SIT/UAT scope, test scripts, test data, and defect triage priorities.
  • Lead cutover planning for PLM (item migration, open development work, in-flight collections) and coordinate with other workstreams.
  • Oversee hypercare post go-live, including issue management, quick fixes, and prioritization of post go-live enhancements.
• Change, Training, & Adoption
  • Define role-based training for designers, developers, planners, and sourcing partners; leverage super users as trainers.
  • Create playbooks and visual process maps that show “how we develop products now” from the user perspective.
  • Monitor adoption (usage metrics, feedback sessions) and adjust process or configuration where necessary
• Understand and actively participate in Environmental, Health & Safety responsibilities by following established UDX policy, procedures, training, and team member involvement activities.
• Perform other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION:

• Bachelor’s degree required in related field.

EXPERIENCE:

• 7+ years’ proven experience developing products from concept through commercialization for major retail channels; or equivalent combination of education and experience.
• Strong understanding of retail requirements, including packaging, compliance, costing, timelines, and vendor management.
• Theme park retail, entertainment, consumer products, or merchandising experience strongly preferred.
• Knowledge of global supply chain processes, vendor management, and import logistics preferred.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:

• Hands-on experience implementing or optimizing product development systems (e.g., PLM, ERP, PIM, workflow tools).
• Ability to map current processes, identify gaps, and design scalable workflows that improve speed to market.
• Comfortable partnering with IT and cross functional teams to configure systems, test functionality, and train end users.
• Strong documentation skills for SOPs, process maps, and system guidelines.
• Experience driving adoption of new tools and processes across teams with varying levels of technical comfort.
• Detail-oriented with a structured, process-driven mindset.
• Excellent project management skills with the ability to juggle multiple timelines and priorities.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to influence across functions.
• Ability to step into an ambiguous environment and quickly create clarity and structure.
• Comfortable working in a temporary or contract capacity with fast onboarding and immediate contribution.
• Skilled in managing product lifecycles, line architecture, and SKU rationalization.
• Reasonable accommodation may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
• Consistent attendance is a job requirement.

Your talent, skills and experience will be rewarded with a competitive compensation package.

Universal Products & Experiences (UP&E)
At Universal Products & Experiences (UP&E), we don’t just create products—we create a universe that fans can hold in their hands, wear, play, read, and experience every day. From Jurassic World’s roaring adventures to the playful charm of Minions and the timeless wonder of Back to the Future, we transform stories into unforgettable moments that spark joy across the globe.

UP&E has grown rapidly while keeping the energy, agility, and inventive spirit of a start up. Our mission is bold: to take imagination beyond the screen and into the real world through innovative products, immersive retail moments, and extraordinary theme park destinations. We bring both Universal-owned and third party worlds to life across expansive theme park destinations, e commerce platforms, live entertainment venues, and global retail partnerships—fueling fandom everywhere it lives. Whether it's iconic toys, fashion collaborations, books, collectibles, lifestyle products, or cutting edge video games, we work with world class licensees and creators to make our universe tangible.
Here, creativity meets technology, and strategy meets storytelling. We connect design, commercial excellence, and fan passion to deliver experiences that millions cherish—inside the parks and far beyond them. As part of Universal Destinations & Experiences, you’ll join a global team that thrives on collaboration, imagination, and the power of culture shaping ideas. Your work will inspire fans, uplift communities, and leave a lasting mark on entertainment history.
We believe in a workplace where every voice matters, every perspective is valued, and every colleague can shine. That’s how we strive to be an employer of choice for talent and a partner of choice for retailers, licensees, and creators who share our passion for world class storytelling. If you’re ready to bring imagination to life and create moments that resonate worldwide—your next adventure starts here.
Join us and help create moments that matter. https://www.universalproductsexperiences.com/

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