International Business Development Manager -Topo Athletic (HYBRID)

Topo Athletic is a young, rapidly growing athletic footwear company on a mission to help people move better, for life. Our core values of authenticity, ambition, clarity, and connection drive everything we do at Topo. If you join our team, you’ll not only have an impact on our business but the opportunity to have an impact on the communities and people we serve. 

The Opportunity

Step into a role where your expertise shapes the future of a global brand. As International Business Development Manager for Topo Athletic, you’ll be the driving force behind expanding our footprint across international markets. From nurturing existing partnerships to unlocking new opportunities, you’ll play a pivotal role in connecting our performance-driven products with athletes worldwide.

This isn’t just about managing numbers—it’s about building relationships, creating strategies, and ensuring our brand thrives in diverse markets. If you’re passionate about global growth and love the challenge of turning potential into performance, this is your chance to make an impact.

What You’ll Be Doing

You’ll lead international business development with a mix of strategy, collaboration, and hands-on execution. Here’s how:

Partner Management & Growth

• Manage and strengthen distribution partnerships in Canada, Europe, Latin America, and Asia-Pacific.
• Identify and pursue new market opportunities to expand global reach.
• Collaborate with CFO and VP of Operations to set annual and bi-annual goals and success metrics.

Performance Tracking & Insights

• Work with distributors to monitor operational and financial results through quarterly reviews and seasonal surveys.
• Compile and present insights to the leadership team for informed decision-making.

Cross-Functional Collaboration

• Align with operations, marketing, and product teams to ensure global strategies are consistent and effective.
• Partner with Marketing Director to approve partner-created assets and market-specific initiatives.
• Share international feedback with Product Director to influence product development.

Sales & Financial Oversight

• Plan and manage seasonal sales meetings, including at least one in-person event.
• Coordinate with Finance to assist in collections and maintain healthy receivable balances.
• Review international order backlogs to anticipate challenges and keep objectives on track.

Market Development & Compliance

• Support new market entry, including prospective calls and onboarding.
• Assist with contract initiation, compliance, and renewals.
• Maintain regular communication with distributors—quarterly for all, monthly for larger markets.

What You’ll Need

We’re looking for someone who combines strategic vision with practical execution. Here’s what sets you up for success:

Skills & Competencies

• Strategic thinker with a knack for spotting opportunities and driving results.
• Collaborative leader who thrives in cross-functional environments.
• Strong understanding of international distribution, retail and wholesale operations, and account planning.
• Financial acumen to track revenue flow, forecast, and manage payment terms.
• Skilled negotiator with the ability to navigate complex business situations.
• Proficient in market analysis, competitive landscape, and success factors.
• Exceptional communication skills—able to influence at all levels.

Qualifications

• Experience: 6+ years in consumer goods (preferably footwear), with exposure to wholesale and international partners.
• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Finance, Management, International Marketing, or equivalent experience.
• Preferred: Direct experience with international wholesale partners, athletic footwear industry background, and language skills.
• Location: Must be based in the U.S.; MA-based candidates strongly preferred.

Perks and Benefits You’ll Enjoy!  

• Your Sole Well-Being:Our benefits package is crafted with our associates in mind! We support you with benefits like free virtual health care, robust family/fertility benefits, 401(k) w/ match, and more. Explore our offerings at https://mymobilewalletcard.com/dbi. 
• Stride with Flexibility:We offer hybrid and remote work opportunities, giving you the freedom to stay connected, productive, and inspired—wherever you do your best work. 
• Stepping Up Your Career:Take advantage of training programs, professional development, and education assistance to advance your career with a company that celebrates bold ideas and fresh perspectives. 
• We are Shoe-Obsessed:Because we know a great pair of shoes can change your day, you’ll enjoy 30% off at DSW & com, plus discounts across our family of brands. 

At Designer Brands, we are the proud parent company of DSW Designer Shoe Warehouse, The Shoe Company, and Rubino, operating nearly 675 stores across North America and a billion-dollar digital commerce business. We lead the footwear industry with a diverse portfolio of iconic brands, including Topo Athletic, Keds, Vince Camuto, Kelly & Katie, Jessica Simpson, Lucky Brand, Mix No. 6, Crown Vintage, and others. With expertise in design, production, and sourcing, we create on-trend footwear and accessories, delivered through a robust omni-channel infrastructure and national wholesale distribution. At Designer Brands, we are committed to fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity, where each employee’s unique perspective contributes to our success. Anchored by our core values of “We Love What We Do,” “We Own What We Do,” “We Do What’s Right,” and “We Belong,” we continuously drive forward together, building a future where everyone can put their best foot forward.