At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead PR strategies and shape brand messaging for New Balance in the UK & Ireland.
- Company: Join New Balance, a pioneering sports brand committed to positive change and innovation.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working hours, private medical insurance, and a generous annual leave policy.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for creativity and career growth in a supportive environment.
- Why this job: Make an impact by driving community engagement and shaping consumer perceptions.
- Qualifications: Experience in PR, media planning, and a passion for sports and culture.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 € per year.
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
We are seeking a Public Relations (PR) & Communications Manager to lead the development and execution of communication strategies for the UK & Ireland market, ensuring brand consistency and impactful messaging across all channels. The role focuses on shaping consumer perception, directing media relations, and strengthening community engagement. It requires strategic leadership of the PR plan, agency management, and accountability for measurable results aligned with regional and global objectives. This role reports directly to the Senior Brand & Communications Manager, UK & I.
Major Accountabilities
- Strategy Development and Brand Alignment: Develop and implement the PR strategy, ensuring alignment with market and regional PR vision and business objectives. Lead PR and communication strategies in collaboration with EMEA Central PR, to reflect consumer behaviour, sports culture, and media landscape.
- Communications, Brand Messaging and Storytelling: Position New Balance as a leading sports and lifestyle brand by leveraging heritage and innovation. Direct and oversee experiential, PR-led events and activations to drive earned media, create product and local hype, and strengthen consumer engagement. Act as the brand spokesperson, developing and pitching compelling stories to secure impactful coverage and managing all media inquiries.
- Local PR Agency Management: Manage and evaluate local PR agency and partners, providing clear briefs, KPIs, and performance reviews to ensure delivery against New Balance’s objectives and standards. Collaborate with the agency to adapt global strategies for local execution, maintaining creativity, impact, and timely delivery.
- Community and Key Opinion Leader Engagement: Develop and manage relationships with KOL, athletes, tastemakers, and the Run catalysts team, ensuring continuity in community leadership and maximising brand exposure. Lead PR-driven activations across all categories to engage running and lifestyle communities, amplify brand storytelling, and maintain a consistent New Balance voice in the market. Oversee the seeding program, ensuring strategic placement of New Balance products with KOL/tastemakers to fully enhance brand exposure.
- Measurement, Market Insights and Analytics: Monitor and analyse media coverage, PR campaign effectiveness, and industry trends specific to New Balance's target demographics. Provide regular reports and actionable insights to optimise PR performance and inform future strategies.
- Budget Management: Plan, allocate, and manage provided Communication/PR budgets to ensure efficient use of resources. Conduct budget reviews and track performance in partnership with the UK and central marketing team to ensure transparency and alignment.
Requirements for Success
- Relevant number of years’ experience in a fast-paced, brand environment.
- Ability to lead a strategic plan and have long-term vision.
- Experience of media planning, social media, PR and Comms, and creative delivery essential.
- Full funnel understanding with a commercial outlook.
- A clear understanding of working across multiple agencies is essential.
- Sports and/or retail background is desirable.
- Highly organised and able to work across multiple campaigns.
- Creative & analytical approach.
- Budget management, tracking, and reporting experience.
- Consumer first approach with a clear understanding of customer profiles and 360’ journey.
- Experience of event-driven marketing and activations.
- Strong attention to detail.
- Ability to work weekends and unsociable hours when required.
- Interest in running, fashion, and culture.
Benefits
- Discretionary Bonus Opportunity
- Private Medical Insurance
- Pension Scheme
- Flexible Working Hours
- Hybrid working (3 days on-site)
- 25 days Annual Leave per year
- Life Insurance
- On Site Gym
- Employee Discount
- Flexibility to work 20 days from anywhere each year
- Wellbeing and Mental Health Benefit (24/7 Employment Assistance Program & Support)
Equal Opportunity Employer
New Balance is committed to equality of opportunity for all current and prospective associates regardless of age, disability, race, religion or belief, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, marriage and civil partnership and gender reassignment. We are an equal opportunity employer and support a culture of diversity and inclusion.
Locations
Marketing Manager PR & Comms, UK & I in Cheshire, Warrington employer: FashionUnited Group
New Balance is an exceptional employer that champions innovation and inclusivity, fostering a vibrant work culture where every associate feels valued and empowered. With a strong commitment to employee growth, the company offers flexible working arrangements, comprehensive benefits including private medical insurance and a discretionary bonus, and opportunities to engage in meaningful community initiatives. Located in the UK, this role not only allows you to shape impactful communication strategies but also to be part of a brand that inspires positive change through sport and craftsmanship.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Marketing Manager PR & Comms, UK & I in Cheshire, Warrington
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the industry, attend events, and connect with potential colleagues on LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio or a personal website that highlights your best work in PR and communications. This is your chance to showcase your creativity and strategic thinking, so make it pop!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the company and its culture. Understand their brand messaging and think about how you can contribute to their goals. Tailor your responses to show you're the perfect fit for New Balance's mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged with our brand.
We think you need these skills to ace Marketing Manager PR & Comms, UK & I in Cheshire, Warrington
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When you're writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see how your love for PR and communications aligns with our mission at New Balance. Make it personal and relatable!
Tailor Your CV:Don’t just send a generic CV! We’re looking for someone who understands our brand and can communicate effectively. Highlight your relevant experience in PR and how it connects to our values and objectives.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Be sure to include specific examples of your past successes in PR and how they relate to the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at FashionUnited Group
✨Know Your Brand Inside Out
Before the interview, dive deep into New Balance's history, values, and recent campaigns. Understanding their brand ethos will help you align your answers with their mission and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Strategic Thinking
Prepare to discuss how you've developed and executed PR strategies in the past. Use specific examples that highlight your ability to lead initiatives, manage agencies, and achieve measurable results, as these are key aspects of the role.
✨Engage with Community Insights
Familiarise yourself with current trends in sports culture and consumer behaviour. Be ready to share your thoughts on how to engage communities effectively, as this will show your understanding of the market and your proactive approach.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Anticipate questions about handling media inquiries or managing PR crises. Think through potential scenarios and how you would respond, showcasing your problem-solving skills and ability to maintain brand integrity under pressure.
