Lead Merchant, Skate Global - Converse

Nike•Boston, MA

1d•$102,800 - $210,000

About The Position

The Lead Merchant, Skate Global role at Converse is an opportunity to work for an iconic sneaker brand, contributing to its legacy in sports and street culture. Converse is described as a place for individuals to explore their potential, break boundaries, and foster creativity within a culture that embraces diversity and imagination. The team is welcoming, creative, and focused on making improvements collaboratively in a dynamic environment.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Business, Merchandising, Marketing, or related field. Will accept any suitable combination of education, experience, and training.
6+ years of relevant experience in Merchandising, Product, Buying, or Marketplace or related field.
Deep understanding of skate culture, performance needs, fashion aesthetic, and community‑driven product trends.
Strong strategic thinking skills with the ability to shape the future direction of the category.
Ability to interpret consumer insights, marketplace data, and competitive trends into actionable product strategies.
Effective communicator who can influence across functions and present with clarity and confidence.
Collaborative, team-oriented mindset with the ability to build trust across diverse groups.
High cultural awareness and sensitivity to the global diversity of skate communities.
Balances art and science in decision‑making — both analytical and intuitive.
Self‑directed, curious, innovative, and dedicated to excellence.
Ability to solve complex problems using limited information while anticipating long‑term implications.
Strong organizational skills and the ability to lead multiple seasonal timelines simultaneously.

Responsibilities

Lead the global seasonal merchandising strategy for the Skate category, providing clear product line direction grounded in deep understanding of skate culture, performance needs, and marketplace dynamics.
Own global line architecture, pricing strategy, franchise plans, and long-term roadmap for Converse Skate.
Partner closely with Footwear and Apparel Product Management, Development, Planning, and Brand to build trend-relevant, culturally aligned, and performance-driven assortments.
In partnership with Product Management teams, identify cultural insights, athlete and community signals, consumer behaviors, and emerging style directions that inform seasonal briefs.
Drive SKU efficiency, margin targets, and business health through data-driven analysis and proactive decision-making.
Present seasonal lineplan, category strategies, key insights, and franchise direction to Executive and Global leadership teams.
Collaborate with Geo Merch teams across North America, EMEA, APLA, and Greater China to ensure global alignment while allowing for marketplace nuance.
Build partnerships with athletes, communities, and cultural voices to ensure Skate remains authentic, credible, and influential.
Provide leadership, mentorship, and strategic clarity across the product creation process.