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:

As a Design Lead you will play a critical role in shaping the future of running footwear at New Balance. You will work with a highly collaborative, cross-functional team to create the next generation of performance running shoes, driven by insights into the needs and desires of modern runners. This role demands a passion for running culture, style, and a deep understanding of the running community, market trends and consumer behaviors.

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Carry a large project workload and leads by example
• Anchor designer for category or collection.
• Collaborate and influence other designers within and across GBUs.
• Exceptional design leadership.
• Subject matter expert on design process and tools.
• Focused on designing disruptive and groundbreaking performance product for athletes and consumers.
• Influences the brand's innovation direction through disruptive and groundbreaking products and platforms.
  

REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:

• BA or Masters degree in Industrial Design and/or Fashion Design or related area.
• Min 10 years progressively more responsible design experience.
• Comprehensive understanding of footwear design, construction, sourcing and commercialization.
• Proven experience in footwear and/or apparel, ideally in the performance running or fashion space.
• Strong portfolio demonstrating your ability to lead Seasonal Creative Direction, including concept, color, materials, finish & graphics
• Deep understanding of the running market, trends and the culture of running.
• Ability to translate business goals into strategic color direction across multiple product categories
• Experience with visual merchandising and planning retail color flow
• Collaborative team player with the ability to influence and inspire others.
• Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written
• Unwavering attention to timelines, deadlines and deliverables
• Highly developed skills in design software such as Adobe Illustrator

Work in a hybrid mode, in the office on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays.

Lawrence, MA Corp Only Pay Range: $129,800.00 - $168,000.00 - $206,200.00 Annual (actual base pay varying based upon, but not limited to, relevant experience, time in role, internal equity, geographic location, and more.)

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 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, or any other protected status.