Associate Rbu Merchandising Manager - 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. At New Balance, We Got Now.

New Balance is leading the industry in driving energy and brand heat in Lifestyle Footwear and Apparel. The Associate Accessories Merchandising Manager will play a central role in orchestrating the flawless execution of product launches, working cross-functionally with key stakeholders across the brand. As an Associate Product Merchandiser, you will support the Merchandise team in their execution of the Directed Assortment product plan for category for the NA region. You will function as a key contributor to the selection criteria, selection, visualization, and socialization of the DA.

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES

• Partner with Accessories Manager to serve as primary counterpart within the US region, especially related to allocation, distribution, and launch dates
• Prepare and perform data entry into product line management system for the category DA
• Develop and maintain launch calendar and detailed product launch project plans, accounting for communication, launch dates, allocations, order entry and on-time fulfilment
• Provide feedback and suggestions to cross-functional global teams based on market data and consumer insights
• Partner with key cross-functional to ensure flawless execution of product launches across Tier 1 Lifestyle, Collaborations, and special projects
• Actively assist Sr. RBU merchant to manage adjustments & modifications to the key assortments and monitor progress against execution, close the loop from plan to execution at retail.
• Research and assess market competition and trends, gathering qualitative and quantitative data
• Connect-the-dots across all cross-functional interdependencies for launches
• Evaluate Category DA’s and make recommendations for improvement to drive Market Share Gains in line with Brand Initiatives.
• Responsible for overall cross-functional communication of trend and accessory product launches
• Collaborate closely with commercial leads within US (especially Accessories Manager/DTC)

REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS

• Knowledge of channel segmentation, range architecture, product assortments, and product flow
• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Merchandising, or related area
• Expert communicator and influencer, both externally with partners and internally with stakeholders
• Experience with product planning, sales forecasting, and working to budgets
• Ability to think critically and provide constructive insight in a collaborative environment. Highly organized, structured, and detail oriented
• Cultural connector with experience building relationships, diverse networks, and long-term partners
• 4+ years’ experience in a Product Merchandise environment, with 3 years of Footwear/Apparel experience
• Ability to lead and influence without direct authority
• Live and thrive in the intersection of street culture, art, sport, and fashion

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.

Learn more about our Benefits

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 and takes affirmative action 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.