International Business Development Manager -Topo Athletic (HYBRID)

Designer Brands Inc. • Framingham, MA

3d • Hybrid

About The Position

Step into a role where your expertise shapes the future of a global brand. As International Business Development Manager for Topo Athletic, you’ll be the driving force behind expanding our footprint across international markets. From nurturing existing partnerships to unlocking new opportunities, you’ll play a pivotal role in connecting our performance-driven products with athletes worldwide.

This isn’t just about managing numbers—it’s about building relationships, creating strategies, and ensuring our brand thrives in diverse markets. If you’re passionate about global growth and love the challenge of turning potential into performance, this is your chance to make an impact.

Requirements

• Strategic thinker with a knack for spotting opportunities and driving results.
• Collaborative leader who thrives in cross-functional environments.
• Strong understanding of international distribution, retail and wholesale operations, and account planning.
• Financial acumen to track revenue flow, forecast, and manage payment terms.
• Skilled negotiator with the ability to navigate complex business situations.
• Proficient in market analysis, competitive landscape, and success factors.
• Exceptional communication skills—able to influence at all levels.
• Experience: 6+ years in consumer goods (preferably footwear), with exposure to wholesale and international partners.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Management, International Marketing, or equivalent experience.
• Location: Must be based in the U.S.; MA-based candidates strongly preferred.

Nice To Haves

• Direct experience with international wholesale partners
• athletic footwear industry background
• language skills

Responsibilities

• Manage and strengthen distribution partnerships in Canada, Europe, Latin America, and Asia-Pacific.
• Identify and pursue new market opportunities to expand global reach.
• Collaborate with CFO and VP of Operations to set annual and bi-annual goals and success metrics.
• Work with distributors to monitor operational and financial results through quarterly reviews and seasonal surveys.
• Compile and present insights to the leadership team for informed decision-making.
• Align with operations, marketing, and product teams to ensure global strategies are consistent and effective.
• Partner with Marketing Director to approve partner-created assets and market-specific initiatives.
• Share international feedback with Product Director to influence product development.
• Plan and manage seasonal sales meetings, including at least one in-person event.
• Coordinate with Finance to assist in collections and maintain healthy receivable balances.
• Review international order backlogs to anticipate challenges and keep objectives on track.
• Support new market entry, including prospective calls and onboarding.
• Assist with contract initiation, compliance, and renewals.
• Maintain regular communication with distributors—quarterly for all, monthly for larger markets.

Benefits

• Your Sole Well-Being:Our benefits package is crafted with our associates in mind! We support you with benefits like free virtual health care, robust family/fertility benefits, 401(k) w/ match, and more.
• Stride with Flexibility:We offer hybrid and remote work opportunities, giving you the freedom to stay connected, productive, and inspired—wherever you do your best work.
• Stepping Up Your Career:Take advantage of training programs, professional development, and education assistance to advance your career with a company that celebrates bold ideas and fresh perspectives.
• We are Shoe-Obsessed:Because we know a great pair of shoes can change your day, you’ll enjoy 30% off at DSW & com, plus discounts across our family of brands.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Manager
• Number of Employees: 5,001-10,000 employees