Account 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:

This position is based in the Chicago area and responsible for driving sales of New Balance footwear to customers within a designated territory. They will be responsible for achieving sales objectives and quotas for their territory. The Account Manager will effectively manage all NB business activities with each customer, using marketing and product initiatives to effectively position New Balance brand.

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Planning: Work with Regional Sales Managers to develop accurate and realist go-to-market plans, quarterly assortments, forecasts, and scenario plans. Conduct monthly and quarterly business reviews with customers. Meet all reporting and forecasting deadlines in a timely and consistent manner.
• Account Management: Work with the Regional Sales Manager to manage assigned accounts. Provide account feedback to Sales and Product management staff. Leverage market and account knowledge to maximize New Balance product placement and sales. Ensure that inventory levels and aligned to sell through, margin and turn objectives. Mentor other Sales Reps regarding best practices for managing accounts.
• Product: Identify product opportunities and execute product strategies.
• Stay current on product features and changes. Recommend product to purchase that position inventory appropriately and proactively manage product flow. Balance the merchandising needs of the account with New Balance's product placement objectives.
• Order Management: Accountable for execution, management, and timely coordination of account orders, including entry, tracking, order confirmation, cancellations and delivery information. Meet all order deadlines in a timely and consistent manner using assigned tools
• Brand Presentation: Manage all aspects of New Balance brand presentation with assigned account(s) including advertising, in store and online. Ensure proper ROI in achieved from New Balance's investments in advertising and in store with customer.
• Coordinate meetings between customer contacts and New Balance Marketing to establish strategies and execution for brand presentations.

REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:

• 5 + years of experience in specialty retail and/or field sales/sales support
• Excellent communication and public presentation skills
• Self-motivation, determination, creativity and organizational skills are a must
• Proficient at computer applications such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
• Frequent travel is required, including multiple overnights and weekends
• Active interest in running and/or related sports is a plus
• Valid driver's license and state driving record is required
• Must be able to lift and carry sample bags weighing up to 30 pounds
• It is required to live in the greater Chicago area

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 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.