Merchandising Manager

**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.

**JOB MISSION**:
Responsible for the art and science of merchandising from both a channel and a market perspective. This individual will provide single point Product Merchandising focus, accountability and expertise for the Canadian market. Working closely with the Regional Business Merchandisers, they will build optimal lifestyle footwear and apparel strategies that support GBU/RBU and Canadian growth objectives as well as overall NB brand objectives. This experienced, dynamic and energetic individual will assist in merchandising the optimal apparel range that supports sales growth and overall brand positioning and image for New Balance within the FOP and teamwear channels.

**MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES**:

- Lead the directed assortment planning process for Lifestyle footwear and apparel (including all lifestyle product and numeric) to ensure that we maximize our brand and revenue potential at retail, delivering assortments for each channel in the Canadian market.
- Lead the creation and presentation of quarterly distribution/segmentation guidelines and new product launch/flow calendar.
- Provide direction for wholesale and MSRP pricing taking into account the Canadian market competitive set and NB profitability goals
- Plan, range, initiate and lead specific projects for the Canadian market.
- Provide forecasts to support demand planning and LRP planning.
- Lead on all product presentations required for go to market meeting and other key client/channel sales sessions.
- Lead for Lifestyle footwear data entry for Canada and DA selection for footwear and apparel.
- Run the development and publishing of any collateral needed to support the sell-in of the seasonal directed assortment (price lists, catalogs, sell sheets, samples)

**REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS**:

- 3+ years industry experience
- Knowledge in the teamwear industry and competitive landscape in Canada
- An understanding of the Sporting Goods industry, culture, retail environment and competitive landscape.
- Basic understanding of channel segmentation, product assortments, concept drivers and product flow.
- Ability to articulate and present product line, positioning and strategy (Excellent presentation skills are a must)
- Strong leadership skills with the ability to influence.
- Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to develop and maintain strong relationships.
- Strong problem solving and decision making skills.
- Willingness and ability to travel (estimate 25-30% of the time)
- Passion for sport, competitive mindset and the pursuit of excellence.

**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 hybrid model encourages rich in-person experiences, showcasing our commitment to teamwork and connection, while providing high levels of flexibility to associates. North American office-based associates are expected to come into the office on Wednesdays, with other occasional in-office days for in-person meetings and events as needed. Our offices are fully open and amenities are available across our North American office locations.

**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.