Director of Licensing and Trademarks

In order to be considered for this role, after clicking "Apply Now" above and being redirected, you must fully complete the application process on the follow-up screen. The Director of Licensing and Trademarks oversees the strategic management of the University of South Florida’s trademark licensing program. This role ensures proper use and protection of institutional marks, manages licensing partnerships, promotes brand visibility, and drives revenue generation in accordance with university standards. A core responsibility includes identifying, evaluating, protecting, and commercializing the University’s intellectual property rights to maximize value and safeguard institutional assets. The position requires collaboration across university departments, including Athletics and Auxiliary Services, and supports student-athlete Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) initiatives through licensing opportunities. The Director reports administratively to the Senior Director and Chief of Staff within University Communications and Marketing, with a dotted-line reporting relationship to the Chief Executive Officer (or designee) of USF Athletics. ResponsibilitiesBrand and Trademark ManagementOversee protection and appropriate use of all USF trademarks, logos, and brand assets. Serve as primary liaison with The Collegiate Licensing Company (CLC) for licensing operations and approvals. Interpret and enforce brand standards and trademark policies across university departments, vendors, and the public. Coordinate with the Office of General Counsel to manage state and federal trademark registrations. Licensing Strategy and Vendor ManagementLead initiatives to grow licensing revenue through innovation, product development, and brand expansion. Manage relationships with licensees, retail partners, e-commerce vendors, and on-campus merchandise providers, including the University Bookstore. Review and approve licensee applications in partnership with CLC to ensure alignment with USF standards. Marketing, Promotion, and Community EngagementPromote the licensing program through digital marketing, social media, and strategic outreach to students, alumni, and fans. Develop and manage event-specific branding (e.g., championship logos, commemorative merchandise). Collaborate with Athletics and Auxiliary Services on fundraising and co-branded merchandise initiatives. Athletics and NIL CollaborationPartner with USF Athletics and Equipment teams on uniform design, sideline apparel, and team merchandise to ensure quality and consistency. Support student-athlete NIL opportunities by facilitating partnerships with approved licensees and brand partners. Work with the official apparel provider and multimedia rights partner to maintain cohesive brand representation across marketing and retail channels. Contract and Partnership OversightManage contracts and relationships with retail, e-commerce, and campus merchandise vendors, including the campus bookstore. Monitor compliance with contractual obligations and oversee branding implementation across merchandise channels. Represent USF in licensing discussions at the national and conference level, including with the American Athletic Conference and CLC. Other duties as assignedQualificationsBachelor’s degree and minimum of seven (7) years related experience. experience and the ability to partner and build strategic relationships with both internal and external key stakeholders. Possesses extensive knowledge of the field's policies, procedures, and practices. Degree Equivalency Clause: Four years of direct experience for a bachelor’s degree. requirements in the U. S. Requirements• A public employer may include a postsecondary degree as a baseline requirement only as an alternative to the number of years of direct experience required, not to exceed:• (a) Two years of direct experience for an associate degree;• (b) Four years of direct experience for a bachelor’s degree;• (c) Six years of direct experience for a master’s degree;• (d) Seven years of direct experience for a professional degree; or• (e) Nine years of direct experience for a doctoral degree• Related work experience may not substitute for any required licensure, certification, or registration required for the position of employment as established by the public employer and indicated in the advertised description of the position of employment. Qualifications that require a high school diploma are exempt from SB 1310. We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.