Head of Retail and Licensing

Lead the global retail and licensing strategy behind the black jersey, one of the most iconic brands in world sport.

The black jersey is one of the most recognised in world sport, worn by fans across Aotearoa and around the globe. New Zealand Rugby (NZR) is looking for a Head of Retail & Licensing to set the strategy for and lead our global retail and licensing business, growing revenue across e-commerce and licensing in New Zealand and key offshore markets. Based in Auckland and reporting to the General Manager Commercial Partnerships, this role shapes how fans connect with the Teams in Black, and drives revenue that is reinvested back into the game.

About the Role

This is a senior leadership role with clear accountability for the commercial performance of our retail and licensing portfolio. You will set the multi-year strategy, own the revenue targets and lead the team that delivers them. You will own the relationship with our global retail partner, Fanatics, driving the growth and evolution of our Monobrand collection and overseeing performance across the e-commerce channel, from trading results and conversion to customer experience. You will shape how Fanatics and our partner adidas work together, and lead product, range and distribution strategy across online, in-venue and partner retail. Supported by the Retail & Licensing Manager, you will provide strategic leadership of our licensee programme, matchday retail and licensing promotions, and work across the business to unlock new revenue opportunities, including co-brand collaborations. Success will mean a growing, fan-first retail business that reaches more fans in more markets, and a licensing programme that strengthens the value of our brands.

About You

You are a senior retail leader with substantial experience in highly commercial roles and a strong e-commerce track record, including driving online sales, conversion and customer growth. You bring product development and range planning experience, ideally in apparel, sports or fan merchandise, along with a background in licensing and managing major retail and brand partners. You think strategically but are comfortable in the detail, you are used to owning revenue targets, and you know how to build and develop a team. Most importantly, you are excited by the chance to put your expertise behind one of the most iconic brands in sport.

About Us 

At NZR we love what we do, we work hard and have fun! You’ll be joining a team of awesome people who are passionate about the game and each other, and you’ll be backed with support to thrive in your role. We know that life isn’t all about work, so we are open to flexible working options.

We value diversity and inclusion and are committed to improving our cultural responsiveness. We embrace and respect each other’s values and we are so proud to be Rainbow Tick certified. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds and walks of life. 

What We Offer (benefits)

•    Learn & Grow Your Career | Flexible Work Environment 
•    Receive Rugby Tickets | Sports Apparel | Discounts
•    Wellbeing | 5 weeks Annual Leave | Social Club

Apply Now 

If you are looking to join a fantastic group of people and licensing for one of the most iconic brands in world sport, submit your CV and cover letter now. Don’t wait until the closing date to apply as we will be reviewing applications as we go.

>> Applications close at 5:00pm, 22 October 2026

>> For a copy of the position description, click here

>> To be considered for this position you must be legally entitled to work in Aotearoa New Zealand and obtain a clear MOJ check. 

Studies have shown that people from under-represented backgrounds, including women, are less likely to apply for roles where they don't match the job description criteria exactly. If you're excited about this role and think you have what it takes, but your experience doesn't align 100%, we still want to hear from you and would encourage you to apply.

Our recruitment process is fair and inclusive and we encourage our applicants to let us know if we can make it more user-friendly for them.  We value diverse perspectives and the contribution every one of our people makes to our culture.  Put simply - you can be yourself here.