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: The Senior Category Manager will drive the Performance Apparel opportunity across EMEA, with a sharp focus on Running & Training, delivering a clear seasonal strategy and range to markets. Work ing closely with local and global teams to clearly communicate regional needs and EMEA point of view. MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES: Plan and deliver the Global line within EMEA with a focus on delivering a coherent range strategy and architecture with a price positioning that drives both brand equity and volume. Lead the development and execution of Performance Apparel Merchandising strategy, including sales, growth, margin, and productivity targets. Implement a DTC first attitude, alongside an elevated focus on selected strategic partners. Develop a pricing strategy in conjunction with the Pricing and Profitability manager, aligned to competitive benchmarking. You will partner with cross-functional teams to align on product strategies, seasonal planning, and consumer insights. Establish and maintain strong relationships with key members of the global and market teams. Drive product lifecycle discussions, franchise health monitoring, and product line architecture development to deliver EMEA strategy. Work seasonally with key accounts and local markets to brief and deliver impactful and engaging SMU opportunities. Travel to domestic and international markets to conduct market, trend, competitor and consumer research and gain product feedback. Establish strong relationships with markets and keep in regular communication with them to ensure all product queries, requirements and feedback are dealt with efficiently and effectively. Present with impact at internal sales meetings as well as in select key account meetings. Delivery accurate seasonal forecasting at category/model/style level. Manage and develop direct report. Reporting of category developments to management as and when. Creation and management of range grids/ presentations/ merchandising systems/ development systems. Managing sample arrival/organisation/ cataloguing etc. REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS: Extensive experience in a category specific role. Pan European attitude and approach. Credible knowledge of EMEA consumer trends and market dynamics. Knowledge of EMEA retail environment. Strong initiative, high energy, passionate, decisive, and a keen eye for detail. Ability to build and deliver impactful strategy and range presentations to large audiences. Strong analytical skills. Ability to work to tight deadlines to meet all merchandising/development milestones. Strong interpersonal skills. General technical product knowledge. Knowledge and understanding of SMU briefing process is valuable. Great team player. High level time management and organisational skills. Efficient computer skills including Excel, Word, Illustrator, PowerPoint, and Microsoft Outlook. BENEFITS: The benefits will differ based on the location of the associate. Discretionary Bonus Opportunity Private Medical Insurance Dental Scheme Pension Scheme Flexible Working Hours Hybrid working 25 days Annual Leave per year Life Insurance On Site Gym Employee Discount Flexibility to work 20 days from anywhere each year Wellbeing and Mental Health Benefit (24/7 Employment Assistance Program & Support) Equal Opportunity Employer: New Balance is committed to equality of opportunity for all current and prospective associates regardless of age, disability, race, religion or belief, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, marriage and civil partnership and gender reassignment. We are an equal opportunity employer and support a culture of diversity and inclusion. If you have not already done so, please let us know if you require any support so we can make the right adjustments and considerations should they be required.