Project Dev Lead- Sustainability and Lifestyle

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 Project Dev Lead focused on Sustainability you will drive validation and adoption of NB's Sustainability initiatives, translating strategy into in-line footwear development. This position leverages NB's volume category to advance progress against our established corporate goals in the reduction of Scope 3 emissions. You will work cross-functionally with key stakeholders in the Sustainability space (Sustainable Innovation, Materials Development, Advanced Concepts Engineering, and Product Sustainability Team). You will drive commercialization of proven concepts through the product creation triad: Design, Development, and Product Management.
You will also develop in-line Lifestyle projects. Here, you will plan, drive and track projects to bring these important products to market on-time and with high quality. You will get valuable experience working cross-functionally with Product Management, Design, Consumer Insights, Engineering, Sourcing and Quality teams. You will utilize (and build on) your knowledge of sustainability, shoe engineering, materials, costing, and manufacturing processes to help you deliver great results. You will learn new skills as New Balance continues to transform our product and processes to be more digital and drive great consumer experiences. This is a hybrid role and required to be in the office on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays.

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:
* In collaboration with subject matter experts, you will focus on high-impact initiatives in the following areas: Material Usage Reduction, Better Leather, Better Textiles, Better Dying, Better Soles, Internal Componentry, Manufacturing Processes and Sole Compounds
* Coordinate testing and trials to validate new concepts, working with our Asia Dev partners
* Operationalize new Sustainability concepts by ensuring accurate and timely data is available at key points in the product creation calendar
For in-line development:
* Meet tech pack handoff, sampling deadlines and product confirmation deadlines with Asia partners and ensure this is properly tracked in the product line management system.
* Meet or beat Target costing (TFCA) on all styles
* Validate all your products by reviewing all testing through development and commercialization - work to solutions for all risks and issues.
* Work on Personal Development including developing your competencies: Drive Results, Action-Oriented, Collaboration, Adaptability, Inclusion
* Domestic and International travel may be required

REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:
* Knowledge of environmentally preferred materials and manufacturing processes
* Understanding of circularity, traceability, and waste reduction
* Familiarity with the macro trends in Sustainability, including pending legislation and NB Development's role in ensuring compliance
* Deep understanding of the footwear creation calendar to influence seasonal adoption of new materials and processes
* Effective Project Management, Communication, and Problem-Solving Skills
* Multiple years of footwear experience with working knowledge of materials, molding processes, footwear technology, and production processes

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.