Footwear design placement

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.New Balance are offering a 1 year paid undergraduate placement to an undergraduate student, currently in penultimate year of study. We are looking for an enthusiastic student with a passion for footwear design to join our European team. The role will support the design team across Lifestyle, Kids and SMU projects, driving innovative and engaging solutions to product briefs. Training and support will be given, allowing you to gain a broad knowledge of a Footwear Design department and global business.This placement opportunity will start on Monday 16th June 2025 and will be based in the Head Office (Warrington) full time.DEADLINE TO APPLY: Sunday 2nd February 2025MAJOR ACCOUNTABILITIES:Provide creative and organisational support to the EMEA Footwear Design team across multiple product categories.Become competent working on live SMU projects, collaborating with key accounts and partners to achieve impactful quick-to-market results.Develop solid understanding of the product briefing process, consumer groups and target FOBs.Deliver compelling and relevant product stories through effective application of colour, material and graphics.Build and maintain strong relationships with Product Development and Product Management teams.Understand product creation timelines and work to global calendar dates to ensure that deadlines are consistently met.Manage seasonal colour and material palette resources at a regional level whilst building and maintaining strong relationships with our global concept team.Attend brief handover, design review and tech pack hand off meetings.Research market trends, consumer insights, competitor activity and create reports.Become point of contact for managing missing CAD requests.Research opportunities for market travel and creative inspiration.Support on ad hoc projects as required.Support Office Management when required, including but not limited to, coordination of Sample Sales and covering reception.KEY REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESS:Studying towards a degree in a relevant design subject. For example, Footwear Design, Product Design, Fashion Design, Graphic Design or Textile DesignMust be able to provide right to work in the UK.Familiar with Adobe Creative and Microsoft Office software.Creative and innovative thinker with a strong passion for Lifestyle\/sports footwear.High level of attention to detail.Excellent organisational skills.Effective communication skills, both verbal and written.Results driven - follows through to conclusion on all projects\/commitments.Ability to use initiative and work independently.Team player.Continuous Improvement mindset.Some travel may be required.To see more of our placement opportunities, please visit our careers page at