Accounts Manager, Partner Operated at Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc.

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

Equal Opportunity Employer

This employer is required to notify all applicants of their rights pursuant to federal employment laws. For further information, please review the Know Your Rights ( https://www.eeoc.gov/poster) notice from the Department of Labor.