Head of Product Line Management Basketball Footwear

PUMA

About The Position

YOUR MISSION As the Head of Product Line Management for Basketball Footwear, you will lead the strategic direction, development, and execution of the basketball footwear category. This role blends market insight, product innovation, and cross-functional leadership to deliver iconic, performance-driven products that resonate with athletes and consumers alike. Job Description: Strategic Leadership Define and drive the long-term vision and seasonal strategies for the basketball footwear category. Align product roadmaps with brand goals, consumer insights, and market trends. Product Development & Innovation Oversee the full product lifecycle—from concept to commercialization. Collaborate with design, development, and marketing teams to create compelling, high-performance footwear. Ensure storytelling through color, material, and graphics reflects brand identity and athlete needs. Market & Consumer Insight Conduct global market and competitor analysis to identify opportunities and gaps. Stay attuned to cultural and sport-specific trends influencing basketball footwear. Cross-Functional Collaboration Partner with merchandising, sports marketing, and sales teams to ensure cohesive go-to-market strategies. Present product lines and strategies to internal stakeholders, key accounts, and international partners. Team Leadership Lead, mentor, and grow a team of product managers. Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performance culture.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Product Design, Sports Management, or related field (Master’s preferred).
Minimum 8–10 years of experience in product management, ideally in performance or lifestyle footwear.
Deep understanding of basketball culture, athlete needs, and footwear innovation.
Proven leadership experience with cross-functional teams.
Strong communication, presentation, and analytical skills.
Passion for sport, style, and consumer-centric design.
A sharp product eye and style sensibility.
Ability to balance performance innovation with cultural relevance.
A pulse on the basketball community—from grassroots to professional.
Visionary thinking paired with operational excellence.
Domestic & International Travel - 40%

Responsibilities

Define and drive the long-term vision and seasonal strategies for the basketball footwear category.
Align product roadmaps with brand goals, consumer insights, and market trends.
Oversee the full product lifecycle—from concept to commercialization.
Collaborate with design, development, and marketing teams to create compelling, high-performance footwear.
Ensure storytelling through color, material, and graphics reflects brand identity and athlete needs.
Conduct global market and competitor analysis to identify opportunities and gaps.
Stay attuned to cultural and sport-specific trends influencing basketball footwear.
Partner with merchandising, sports marketing, and sales teams to ensure cohesive go-to-market strategies.
Present product lines and strategies to internal stakeholders, key accounts, and international partners.
Lead, mentor, and grow a team of product managers.
Foster a collaborative, inclusive, and high-performance culture.