Project Manager, National Geographic Brand & Franchise Team

Overview

The Brand & Franchise team shapes how the National Geographic brand appears worldwide, driving brand strategy, campaign creation, and franchise development. They transform distinct stories and content into unified, scalable platforms that enhance audience engagement, cultural relevance, and business expansion.

This team collaborates across editorial, marketing, social media, consumer products, travel divisions, the National Geographic Society, and The Walt Disney Company to synchronize priorities and execute integrated initiatives. Acting as a pivotal connector, they guarantee consistency, clarity, and impactful multi-platform campaign activation.

The Project Manager is essential in maintaining momentum for high-profile, cross-department projects, applying operational discipline and creative insight befitting this iconic brand. Reporting jointly to the Brand & Franchise Integrated Planning and Stewardship team and the Society, this role closely partners with National Geographic Content, the Society, and Walt Disney Company divisions to amplify brand presence, engage audiences, and foster commercial growth.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the transition from project brief to kickoff, confirming scope, timeline, deliverables, and decision-making authority prior to creative phases.
• Act as the central coordinator among the Brand team and diverse partners including Creative, Social, Legal, Marketing, and external vendors.
• Oversee multiple concurrent campaigns across creative and channel spheres, ensuring leadership maintains a clear portfolio perspective.
• Maintain up-to-date project documentation accessible to the entire team throughout campaign stages.
• Monitor budget actuals versus estimates, identify discrepancies, and anticipate resource conflicts.
• Conduct post-campaign evaluations and integrate process enhancements into future operations.
• Manage asset coordination, approvals, and final deliveries across all campaign workflows.

Experience and Qualifications

• Minimum of five years managing multiple projects related to brand marketing, integrated marketing, strategy, or franchise disciplines.
• At least three years managing cross-functional initiatives within global, matrixed entertainment/media companies or agencies is highly preferred.
• Proven expertise in budget monitoring and financial management, including reconciling actuals with forecasts.
• Practical experience with Airtable or similar platforms, capable of designing trackers, workflows, and intake processes.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office suite, familiarity with AI-enhanced productivity tools, and eagerness to adopt new workflow technologies.
• Skilled in creating presentations and distilling complex information into persuasive decks for internal and senior audiences.
• Residence within commuting distance of Washington, DC, New York City, or Los Angeles headquarters is required, with onsite presence four days weekly.
• Ability to manage ambiguity confidently, maintain order amid shifting priorities, and apply systems thinking to improve team performance.
• Demonstrated curiosity and adaptability through ongoing learning and tool utilization beyond core expertise.

Education

Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Brand Management, Business, or a related discipline.

Compensation and Additional Details

The salary for this role varies by location: from $95,500 to $128,000 annually in Washington, DC and Burbank, CA, and from $100,100 to $134,200 annually in New York City. The final offer considers internal equity, candidate’s skills, experience, and geographic region. Compensation may also include bonuses and long-term incentive units, alongside full medical, financial, and other benefit packages based on level and role.