Director, Direct Merchandising, Global Converse

Become part of the Converse team, a brand focused on self-expression, creativity, diversity, and innovation.

We’re looking for a Director of Direct Merchandising to develop and execute merchandising and buying strategies that drive sales, margin, and consumer experience across stores and digital platforms. This leader will champion best-in-class product strategies and foster a culture of agility and continuous learning.

What You Will Work On

• Develop and lead the overall direct merchandising and buying strategy to drive sales, margin, and consumer engagement.
• Define product assortment and pricing across direct channels.
• Partner with Planning and Marketing teams to ensure cohesive execution.
• Manage and mentor a team of merchants, fostering collaboration, accountability, and a consumer-first mindset.
• Manage hiring, training, and performance evaluations.
• Monitor KPIs including traffic, conversion, AOV, revenue, margin, and sell-through.
• Balance inventory levels and demand forecasts in collaboration with the Planning team.
• Use analytical tools to generate insights and shape future product and buying strategies.
• Present findings and strategic recommendations to cross-functional peers and leadership.
• Use trend and market data and hold focus groups to shape seasonal product priorities.

Who You Will Work With

You will partner closely with cross-functional leaders across Planning, Marketing, and Direct teams. This role is also a key member of the Global Marketplace Merchandising leadership team.

What You Bring

• Bachelor’s degree in business, merchandising, or a related field; suitable combinations of education, experience, and training will be considered.
• 8+ years of merchandising experience, including omnichannel retail.
• 3+ years of people leadership experience.
• Proven experience driving revenue growth and improving merchandising performance across digital and store businesses.
• Creative, strategic, and technical thinking, with the ability to operate at both operational and strategic levels.
• Strong analytical skills and retail acumen, with the ability to translate performance metrics into future insights.
• Deep understanding of retail trends, consumer behaviors, and digital commerce.
• Excellent leadership, facilitation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong organizational skills, including prioritization, delegation, and concurrent project management.
• Footwear industry experience preferred.
• Ability to travel 25%.

The annual base salary ranges from $157,600 in the lowest geographic market to $332,300 in the highest geographic market. Actual salary varies based on location, qualifications, skills, and experience. Converse offers accommodations throughout the interview process and provides generous benefits packages.