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.
As the Head of Retail for Territory South, you are the Retail Director EMEA’s strategic partner and the senior field leader accountable for translating EMEA strategy into market impact across multiple markets. You will lead commercial and operational performance, shape the regional retail organisation, and build capability through your Area Managers. This is a senior, hands‑on role requiring executive presence, cross‑functional influence, and a proven track record of delivering profitable growth in multi‑market retail environments.
This role requires strategic leadership across diverse markets with strong seasonal demand, longer travel distances between locations, and a need for local commercial adaptation while maintaining global brand standards with the ability to travel 70-80% on average.
Territory Scope & Context
Location: Within the assigned South region, ideally based near a store or office
Reporting to: Retail Director EMEA
Direct reports: Area Managers across South territory
Cluster South: France; Spain; Portugal; Italy
Strategic & Commercial Accountabilities
Cluster strategy and growth: Define and deliver the cluster retail strategy aligned to EMEA priorities; prioritise investments, local initiatives and resource allocation to grow market share, margin and customer loyalty.
P&L and commercial ownership: In partnership with Finance and Commercial teams, own the commercial levers that drive top‑line and margin performance (pricing, assortment, promotions, productivity). Set stretch targets and hold the region accountable for delivery.
Use sales, traffic, inventory and CRM analytics to identify opportunities and risks; implement targeted interventions to improve conversion, ATV and stock turn.
Operational Leadership & Execution
Leadership, People & Stakeholder Management
Direct reports and team structure: Line manage Area Managers who in turn manage Store Managers across the cluster. Set clear objectives, run structured performance and talent reviews, and ensure consistent coaching and capability development across the region.
Cross‑functional influence: Act as the primary interface between field operations and EMEA functions (Merchandising, Marketing, Supply Chain, HR, Finance). Influence assortment, allocation and trade marketing decisions to reflect local market needs.
REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:
Experience, Skills & Attributes
Executive presence, strong commercial judgement, decisive under pressure, and a track record of building capability in dispersed/remote teams.
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.
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