Accounts Manager, Partner Operated

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