JOB MISSION:

Work with the Sr. Merchandising Manager, NA DTC Footwear to create and maintain multi-season directed product assortments of New Balance Performance Footwear (Running and Field of Play), that serve US DTC channels and consumers across NB.com, Inline and Outlet B&M, and deliver on key strategic Brand initiatives and performance KPIs.  Work in close partnership with Commercial Buying and Planning team colleagues to validate line architecture and assortment shape/share and to ensure directed assortment (DA) execution. Contribute to the planning and execution of Merchandising-related go-to-market deliverables and stage-gates in partnership with the Regional Business Unit Merchants (RBU) and Key Account Merchants (KAM).

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Adopt and adapt Global and Regional performance footwear product assortments to meet and exceed region and channel goals.  

• Act as liaison/point of contact for Running Event assortment communication and feedback.

• Establish directed assortments (DA’s) that deliver right product, right time, right place, right quantities by channel.

• Balance the ‘art and science’ of End-to End merchandising incorporating sell-in/sell-thru data analysis with future-facing Brand directed consumer/trend insights.

• Contribute to regional seasonal Footwear strategies and priorities as applicable.

• Advocate for DTC assortment needs through RBU and KAM collaboration.

• Ensure retail-peak-aligned, compelling head-to-to-toe consumer experience through cross category / cross functional partnership.

• Actively manage and communicate assortment modifications, ensuring data integrity and best in class execution.

• Serve DTC commercial team stakeholders as go-to point of contact for category assortment-related needs.

REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:

• 3+ years related product management or merchandising experience with 5+ years professional experience 

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent 

• Retail/industry experience / Athletic market footwear preferred

• System savvy (VibeIQ Merchandising)

• Proficient in Excel and PowerPoint

• Strong planning, organization, and follow-through a must

• Relevant branded industry knowledge/interest

• Analytical / problem solving skills 

• Strong cross-functional collaborator and ability to work within a matrixed organization and a level of ambiguity

Regular Associate Benefits 

Our products are only as good as the people we hire, so we make sure to hire the best and treat them accordingly. New Balance offers a comprehensive traditional benefits package including three options for medical insurance as well as dental, vision, life insurance and 401K. We also proudly offer a slate of more nontraditional perks – opportunities like online learning and development courses, tuition reimbursement, $100 monthly student loan support and various mentorship programs – that encourage our associates to grow personally as they develop professionally. You’ll also enjoy a yearly $1,000 lifestyle reimbursement, 4 weeks of vacations, 12 holidays and generous parental leave, because work-life balance is more than just a buzzword – it’s part of our culture.

Temporary associates are provided three options for medical insurance as well as dental and vision insurance and an associate discount.

Part time associates are provided 401k, short term disability, a yearly $300 lifestyle reimbursement and an associate discount.

Flexible Work Schedule

For decades we have fostered a unique culture founded on our values with a particular focus on in-person teamwork and collaboration. Our North American hybrid model encourages rich in-person experiences, showcasing our commitment to teamwork and connection, while maintaining flexibility for associates. New Balance Associates currently work in office three days per week (Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday). Our offices are fully open, and amenities are available across our North American office locations. To continue our focus on hybrid work we have introduced “Work from Anywhere” (WFA) for four weeks per calendar year. This model will help us enhance our culture while continuing to maintain elements of flexibility.