Sample Making and Operations Lead, Apparel Sample Room

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:
As a leader within the Sample Making and Operations Lead is responsible for driving operational and technical excellence across a diverse range of apparel products. This hands-on role blends deep technical expertise with garment creation abilities, fostering a culture of continuous improvement, collaboration, and craftsmanship. The ideal candidate is a forward-thinking problem solver who actively partners with cross-functional teams, external collaborators, and emerging talent to elevate the sample room's impact on the broader product creation process.

MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:
* Oversee and delegate sample-making operations to ensure on-time delivery based on project priorities. This role actively contributes to sample making / sewing creation to meet or exceed deadlines.
* Champion a Design for Manufacturing (DFM) approach to ensure product feasibility, cost efficiency, and production scalability without compromising design integrity.
* Collaborate with design, development, and technical Design teams to influence early-stage product decisions with a manufacturing lens.
* Lead continuous improvement initiatives by identifying and implementing new equipment, tools, and processes to enhance speed, quality, and efficiency.
* Oversee preventative maintenance plan for all machinery; perform basic repairs as needed. Responsible for arranging external technicians when needed.
* Set up and prepare machines for new projects and support team members as required.
* Ensure machine safety and compliance with OSHA and other relevant safety protocols.
* Stay informed on new equipment and technologies; recommend investments and present value-added opportunities.
* Effectively prioritize tasks and manage multiple responsibilities independently and for direct reports.
* Train, mentor, and manage multiple direct reports, fostering a high-performing unified team culture.
* Proactively develop and maintain strong industry network connections to identify new tools, talent, and best practices.

REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:
* 15+ years in apparel manufacturing or sample room setting, including at least 3 years in management role.
* Expert skill using a wide range of industrial sewing machines is a requirement. Must have work experience and high skill: Flatlock, coverstitch, overlock, mulit-needle, merrow, buttonhole, bartack, etc.
* Demonstrated passion for mentoring and developing talent, with a proven track record of building high-performing teams.
* Mastery of garment construction and industrial sewing across all fabric and product types.
* Strong organizational and project management skills.
* Proficient in Microsoft Office applications

* Ability to manage complex workflows and influence cross-functional partners.
* Must be available to work onsite in Brighton, MA, five days a week.

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.