JOB MISSION:

As a Product Manager, you will support the Lifestyle category and specifically the Essentials Product Creation Team in execution of the global line plan for Lifestyle Footwear targeting Tier 4 distribution. You will serve as the category consumer, product and storytelling expert for the New Balance brand, working on a team that is creating industry leading commercial product. You will effectively manage the product creation process from briefing to design creation to commercialization and aid in strategic assortment planning.  This includes both new product ($70 - $100 MSRP) as well as expanding franchise models through fresh seasonal material and color flow. 

This individual will be a strategic, highly collaborative and creative thinker.  It is crucial that this individual is trend/fashion minded with an eye for product.  This individual will have strong problem-solving skills, excellent communication style and obsess over the details.  This individual must be a self-starter, curious thinker and entrepreneur minded as they partner with diverse global teams and lead the creation triad team. 

This role will be based at either New Balance headquarters in the Boston area or New Balance Warrington office in the U.K.

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Manage and execute the Essentials Lifestyle product line strategically aligned with the needs of the global consumer.
• Creatively input insights to briefs to inspire the design and marketing teams.
• Incorporate available bench research data to support insights and future opportunities.
• Own deliverable timing, tracking and execution with a strong POV and passion for the consumer.
• Achieve sales revenue, unit margins, and brand share objectives for the category.
• Remain current on industry and fashion trends, analyze market data and identify opportunities for new product development or franchise extensions.
• Obsess over the consumer: apply hindsight, insight, foresight and marketplace knowledge to create compelling product strategies and identifying opportunities.
• Collaborate with cross-functional teams and lead product quad team (design, development, costing and PM) to ensure we deliver premium price to value product on-time.
• Lead seasonal category material and color capsule strategy through partnering with material design and color design as well as Performance PMs.
• Responsible for go-to-market product direction –product data integrity, product copy direction, product storytelling and create and deliver presentations to senior management and customers.

REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:

• 5+ years of experience in product creation or product merchandising in lifestyle/fashion space (experience in commercial/value product is a major plus).
• The ability to build and implement product strategy and lead a cross functional team.
• Entrepreneurial spirit, strong product and financial acumen, and a creative eye for product design and trends.
• Strong analytical skills and action-oriented approach to utilizing data to drive decision making and results.
• Attention to detail, data integrity and deadlines.
• Excellent presentation and interpersonal communication skills, collaboration and influence skills.
• Dynamic team player, comfortable working cross-functionally and in a fast-paced environment.
• Excellent industry knowledge and understanding of New Balance Lifestyle Premium product and strategy.

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.