Sr Operations Specialist, Global Sample Management

New Balance Athletics, Inc.; Lawrence (MA); On-site; USD 71,000 - 110,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical insurance

Dental & Vision

401K

Lifestyle reimbursement

Vacation

Job summary

New Balance Athletics, Inc. seeks a senior planner/purchasing professional in Lawrence, MA to coordinate cross-functional Sample PO releases and drive on-time order execution with manufacturing partners.

The role requires strong analytical and project management skills, with experience in supply chain process improvements and ERP systems. The position offers a North American hybrid work environment and a comprehensive benefits package.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree with 8+ years in fast-paced planning/purchasing.
• Experience in supply chain process improvements.
• Strong analytical, communication, and project management skills; supervisory experience preferred.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office and ERP systems.

Responsibilities

• Execute Sample PO releases on time.
• Review delivery status and identify risks.
• Coordinate with suppliers and cross-functional partners.
• Provide visibility of risks and performance trends.
• Lead cross-functional projects aligned with objectives.

Skills

Analytical skills

Communication

Project management

Supervisory skills

Education

Bachelor’s Degree

Tools

ERP systems

Diver

xPC

Job description

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:

Responsible for coordinating cross-functional efforts to execute on-time Sample PO releases to manufacturing partners. Responsible for all activities related to New Balance Sample purchase order placement and confirmation while ensuring suppliers adhere to New Balance Sample order management guidelines and achieve designated KPIs, including but not limited to x-factory performance and PO data management. Act as the primary internal liaison to cross-functional teams, including Customer Service, Development, Sourcing, and Operations, to ensure both New Balance and customer requirements are accurately executed at the factory PO level. This role performs work that supports company objectives, strategic initiatives, and operational goals; work is reviewed for quality, accuracy, and sound judgment. In this role you will apply industry knowledge, best practices, techniques, and established processes to effectively manage order execution activities. This position operates as a key cross-functional partner, collaborating with internal stakeholders and external manufacturing partners to develop solutions to issues of complexity, impact, and risk. Success in the role requires a strong sense of ownership, action-oriented problem solving, adaptability in a dynamic business environment, and a commitment to delivering meaningful results.

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:

• Execute Sample PO releases and ensure timely order placement and confirmation.
• Review delivery status and proactively identify risks to committed timelines.
• Review weekly exceptions and drive timely resolution with suppliers and internal partners.
• Work closely with suppliers, OM teams, and cross-functional partners to communicate issues, drive resolution, and ensure stakeholder alignment.
• Provide timely visibility of risks, exceptions, and performance trends to appropriate teams.
• Build and maintain trusted partnerships across functions and with external manufacturing partners to support shared business objectives.
• Serve as a key point of contact and subject matter expert for Sample PO Management processes.
• Participate in and/or lead cross-functional projects that support strategic business objectives.
• Participate in weekly and monthly KPI reporting, analysis, and performance reviews.
• Identify and lead process improvement initiatives related to PO management and cross-functional business activities.

REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:

• Bachelor’s Degree with a minimum of 8 years of experience in a fast-paced planning and/or purchasing environment preferred.
• On hands experience developing and implementing supply chain process improvements.
• Strong analytical, communication, and project management skills Supervisory skills preferred.
• Computer skills including Microsoft Office (WORD, EXCEL, etc.), ERP systems, Diver, xPC, etc.

Lawrence, MA Corp Only Pay Range: $70,600.00 - $90,500.00 - $110,400.00 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. At New Balance, our job is to aid athletes in their pursuit of excellence, whether that means helping professional athletes set records and win medals, or propelling everyday athletes to achieve a new PR, run their first 5K or just to live a more healthy and active lifestyle. Our products are the perfect blend of function and fashion, giving you the performance technology you need and the style you want. Our associates around the world bring these goals to life with their high-level skills and creativity. While we offer the best product on the market, we’re also equally committed to giving back. So while we look to succeed, we believe in ensuring others have the same opportunity.