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.
Location: Ideally based near one of the stores in the Southern part of the UK.
Reporting to : Head of Retail for the territory
Direct reports : Store Managers (across a defined number of stores)
JOB MISSION:
As an Area Manager, you are accountable for the commercial performance, operational excellence and people leadership across a defined group of New Balance stores within your Area. Reporting directly to the Head of Retail for the territory, you act as the key link between store execution and regional strategy.
You ensure consistent execution of New Balance retail standards, drive KPI performance, develop Store Managers and teams, and identify opportunities for continuous performance improvement. You are a visible leader in-store, a strong operational partner, and a brand ambassador who role-models New Balance values at all times.
The role requires a high level of autonomy, strong field presence and frequent store visits, typically spending 4-5 days per week in stores, depending on business needs.
MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:
Commercial Performance & KPI Delivery
Own and drive store performance across your Area against agreed KPIs including sales, conversion, UPT, ATV/AOV, productivity and margin drivers
Use commercial reports, walkthroughs and dashboard insights to identify risks and opportunities
Partner with Store Managers to build and execute robust action plans that improve performance
Provide timely, structured performance updates and insights to the Head of Retail for area
Operational Excellence & Compliance
Ensure full and consistent execution of all New Balance operational standards
Conduct regular store audits, follow up on findings, and ensure corrective actions are completed on time
Own mystery shop results and action plans, driving sustained improvements in service and customer experience
Attend and support stocktakes, perform spot checks, and deliver post‑stocktake action plans
Loss Prevention & Cost Control
Support Store Managers in loss prevention best practices, cash handling and security procedures
Review cash collections, petty cash, store floats and cash management processes
Monitor shrinkage results, investigate variances, and escalate risks appropriately
Manage controllable in‑store costs with strong cost discipline
People Leadership & Talent Development
Lead, coach and develop Store Managers through regular feedback, in‑store coaching and performance reviews
Build strong store leadership capability and succession pipelines within the Area
Oversee store‑level HR activities including recruitment, onboarding, employee relations, performance management, payroll accuracy, holiday planning, training and development
Foster a high‑performance, inclusive culture aligned with New Balance values
Stakeholder & Regional Collaboration
Act as the primary operational contact for stores within your Area
Support the Head of Retail S/N/C through accurate reporting, project support and ad‑hoc analysis where required
Collaborate with cross‑functional partners (HR, Finance, VM, Operations) to support effective store execution
Travel within the EMEA region as required to support business priorities
REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:
Experience & Capability
Proven experience in retail management within multi‑store or area management
Strong track record of delivering sales targets and operational KPIs
Demonstrated people leadership experience, including coaching and developing Store Managers
Solid understanding of retail operations, audits, shrinkage and cost control
Skills & Attributes
Strong commercial…