Sr Merchandising Manager, DTC Apparel and Accessories

Who We Are: 

Since 1906, New Balance has empowered people through sport and craftsmanship to create positive change in communities around the world. We innovate fearlessly, guided by our core values and driven by the belief that conventions were meant to be challenged. We foster a culture in which every associate feels welcomed and respected, where leaders and creatives are inspired to shape the world of tomorrow by taking bold action today.

JOB MISSION:
Create and maintain multi-season directed product assortments of New Balance Apparel and Accessories that serve US DTC Channels and consumers across NB.com, Inline/Outlet B&M, and deliver on key strategic Brand initiatives and performance KPIs. Work in close partnership with Commercial Buying and Planning teams to validate line architecture and assortment shape/share and to ensure directed assortment 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 Merchant (KAM) partners.

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:

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

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

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

• Lead / influence seasonal Apparel and Accessories strategies and regional priorities as applicable.

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

• Ensure retail peak aligned, compelling head-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:

• 10+ years of product management, merchandising, buying, or related experience

• Apparel experience strongly preferred

• System savvy (VibeIQ Merchandising); proficient in Excel and PowerPoint

• Strong planning and organization skills

• Relevant branded industry knowledge

• Analytical, problem solving skills

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

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent preferred

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.

Equal Opportunity Employer

New Balance provides equal opportunities for all current and prospective associates to ensure that employment, training, compensation, transfer, promotion and other terms, conditions and privileges of employment are provided without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, handicap, genetic information and/or status as an Armed Forces service medal veteran, recently separated veteran, qualified disabled veteran or other protected veteran, or any other protected status.