OPEN POSITION
Job Title: General Manager USA
About LOWA
LOWA is a premium outdoor footwear brand and part of the brand portfolio of Tecnica Group. The brand, rooted in Germany and founded 102 years ago, is best known for designing high-performance and durable outdoor footwear for adventure enthusiasts, explorers, mountain and trail athletes. With a commitment to quality, sustainability, and innovation, our products cater to customers who demand the best in outdoor gear. As we continue to expand our presence in the market, we are seeking a passionate and results-driven General Manager to lead our U.S. operations and elevate our brand to new heights.
General Purpose of the Job
The General Manager (GM) will be responsible for overseeing the overall operations of the LOWA brand within the U.S. market, with a focus on driving growth, enhancing brand equity, and ensuring an exceptional customer experience. The GM will work closely with the LOWA headquarter in Germany to achieve business objectives and maintain LOWA’s premium positioning in the market. The GM will report to the Global Commercial Director (GCD) of the LOWA Group.
Main Responsibilities
- Define and implement the U.S. market strategy, in alignment with the brand's global vision.
- Set clear business goals and performance targets across all key functions.
- Drive growth initiatives and manage the brand’s performance, ensuring a consistent upward trajectory in revenue, market share and brand recognition.
- Lead the team and build a winning culture.
- Representing the brand in the market to relevant external stakeholders.
Profit & Loss and Financial Management:
- Oversee the U.S. P&L, managing revenue, expenses, and profitability.
- Work closely with the local and global finance team to develop accurate forecasts, budgets, and financial reports.
- Ensure cost-effective strategies are implemented without compromising the quality or integrity of the brand.
Brand & Marketing Strategy:
- In collaboration with the global marketing team, refine and execute high- impact marketing campaigns that resonate with U.S. consumers and enhance brand loyalty.
- Build and nurture relationships with key partners, influencers, and media to elevate the brand presence in the market.
- Ensure the brand's positioning and messaging align with premium quality standards, sustainability, and innovation.
- Gain, and provide to global brand partners, critical consumer insights to inform a consumer data driven decision model.
Sales & Retail Operations:
- Drive the growth of retail and e-commerce channels, optimizing both online and offline sales strategies.
- Manage relationships with key retail partners and distributors, ensuring excellent product placement and execution of brand initiatives.
- Oversee customer service and fulfillment processes, ensuring a seamless, premium customer experience from purchase to post-sale.
Team Leadership & Development:
- Build, lead, and inspire a high-performing team across various functions, including sales, marketing, operations, and customer service.
- Foster a collaborative and innovative culture that aligns with the brand’s values.
- Provide mentoring and professional development opportunities to team members, ensuring succession planning and talent retention.
Product & Supply Chain Management:
- Work closely with product development and operations teams to ensure timely delivery of products that meet customer expectations in terms of quality and performance.
- Monitor inventory levels, demand forecasting, and supply chain logistics to ensure product availability and minimize disruptions.
Sustainability & Corporate Social Responsibility:
- Champion sustainability efforts within the brand’s U.S. operations, ensuring alignment with the company’s broader environmental goals.
- Oversee the execution of ethical sourcing and responsible business practices, strengthening the brand’s commitment to social responsibility.
Qualifications
- Experience: 8+ years in a senior management or leadership role within the premium lifestyle, fashion, or outdoor product industries, preferably within outdoor footwear.
- Network: Knowledge of, and relationship with leading outdoor retail specialists and chains.
- Leadership: Proven track record of managing cross-functional teams and driving performance in a high-growth environment.
- Strategic Thinking: Strong analytical skills with a data-driven approach to decision-making and problem-solving.
- Financial Acumen: Expertise in managing P&L, budgeting, forecasting, financial analysis and balance sheet management.
- Brand Management: Experience in elevating brand awareness, loyalty, and market share for a premium product line.
- E-Commerce Expertise: Knowledge of online retail, direct-to-consumer sales, and digital marketing strategies.
- Sustainability Focus: Experience with sustainable product development or a passion for environmental stewardship is a plus.
Skills
- Strong leadership and interpersonal communication skills.
- Ability to adapt and thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.
- Deep understanding of the U.S. outdoor and active lifestyle market.
- Expertise in driving digital transformation, customer engagement, and omnichannel strategies.
- A passion for the outdoors and a personal alignment with the brand’s values.
Education
- Bachelor, or Masters, degree in business relevant field – MBA preferred.
- Kept up to date with digital commerce and sustainability knowledge.
Scope of work
- Location: Stamford, Connecticut / Travel share appr 50% +
Why join LOWA
- Competitive salary and benefits package including a health insurance package and matching 401K plan.
- Opportunity to make a significant impact on a growing brand.
- Work in an innovative, passionate, and values-driven company.
- Collaborate with a dynamic, global team of industry experts.
- Enjoy an inclusive, flexible, and supportive work environment.
Send your resume to jobs@lowa.net