EMEA Product Development Manager - Toys, Games & Promotions - 39741

EMEA Product Development Manager - Toys, Games & Promotions

Location: London - hybrid, approximately one day per week onsite
Contract: Maternity cover, 20 October 2026-19 September 2027
Rate: £230.77 per day PAYE
Travel: Some international travel required

Our client, a leading global entertainment and media organisation, is looking for an experienced Product Development Manager to oversee the development of toys, games and promotional products across EMEA.

This is a creative and hands on position translating well known entertainment franchises, characters and stories into compelling consumer products. Approximately 70% of the role will focus on providing creative product development support to a major global toy partner.

Key responsibilities

• Manage the development of toys, games and promotional products across EMEA.
• Translate entertainment franchises and characters into creative product concepts.
• Provide creative direction and product development support to a major global toy partner.
• Collaborate with creative, commercial and franchise stakeholders, licensees and manufacturers.
• Create and review product designs, illustrations and graphic applications.
• Provide clear creative feedback and manage product approval timelines.
• Ensure products comply with brand and franchise guidelines.
• Consider manufacturing capabilities, product construction and packaging requirements throughout development.
• Research consumer trends, illustration styles, competitor products and developments within the toys and games market.
• Maintain consistently high creative and technical standards across all projects.
• Share product development best practices with the wider team.

Essential skills and experience

• A minimum of five years' experience in 3D product design, toy development or toy manufacturing.
• A design degree, technical qualification or equivalent practical experience.
• Advanced Adobe Illustrator and Photoshop skills.
• Strong experience with relevant 3D design software.
• Excellent product design and illustration skills.
• Knowledge of toy packaging, manufacturing processes and the technical construction of products and components.
• Strong understanding of design and consumer trends within the toys and games market.
• Experience presenting creative concepts and recommendations to stakeholders.
• Excellent attention to detail and the ability to work effectively to tight deadlines.
• Strong communication, collaboration and stakeholder management skills.
• A proactive, tenacious and solutions focused approach.
• Working knowledge of InDesign, Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
• Availability to travel when required.

Desirable

• Previous experience within an entertainment, licensing or franchise led organisation.
• Experience working with major toy manufacturers, licensees or global consumer product partners.
• Knowledge of product development across multiple EMEA markets.

This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced toy or consumer product specialist who combines creative flair with strong technical manufacturing knowledge.