Creative Trend Specialist

Who We AreSince 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.POSITION SUMMARYNew Balance Korea is seeking a trend-savvy Creative Trend Specialist for the Asia Design Studio (ADS). In this role, you will work under the Senior Manager of Creative Trend and play a key part in shaping the design and aesthetic direction of our lifestyle apparel line. Additionally, you will identify new business opportunities through in-depth consumer research and analysis.The Asia Design Studio focuses on three key markets: Japan, Korea, and China. We are looking for someone with a sharp eye for emerging trends in fashion, sports, and lifestyle to ensure our products resonate with consumers.KEY RESPONSIBILITIESTrend & Market ResearchMonitor and analyze emerging trends in fashion, sports, and lifestyle across Asia and globally.Conduct market research to understand consumer preferences and forecast future needs.Collaborate with in-country consumer insights teams to gather localized data.Benchmark competitor products and industry developments to inform design strategy.Consumer & Cultural InsightsLeverage consumer feedback, surveys, and data analytics to refine trend strategies and creative direction.Integrate cultural and consumer insights from Japan, Korea, and China into seasonal planning.Utilize regional digital platforms to capture trend behaviors and data-driven insights: Korea: Musinsa, Naver data Lab, Kakao shopping, Kream China: Xiaohongshu, WeChat, Tmall Japan: Zozotown, Cross-market: Instagram, TikTok, Google TrendsTrend Forecasting & Seasonal PlanningDevelop trend forecasts and long-term predictions to guide seasonal product releases.Align trend timelines with product development and production schedules.Translate emotional and cultural signals into actionable design narratives relevant to both local and global markets.Creative Direction & IntegrationSupport the Senior Manager in developing seasonal trend stories and creative direction in alignment with global teams.Collaborate with cross-functional teams (design, marketing, merchandising, product development) to ensure trend consistency.Contribute to decisions on color palettes, fabrics, and design elements that reflect current trends.REQUIREMENTS FOR SUCCESSMinimum 6 years of experience in merchandising, trend analysis, or consumer insights, preferably in fashion or lifestyle.Strong understanding of Korean consumer culture and fashion market dynamics.Experience with social media platforms and influencer content analysis (SNS)Proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint, and data visualization tools.Business-level English proficiency (verbal and written).Bachelor's degree in Fashion, Marketing, Business, or related field.Strong communication and cross-functional collaboration skills.Ability to synthesize data into clear, actionable insights.ADDITIONAL INFORMATIONLocation: Seoul, Korea / Department: Asia Design Studio (ADS) / Reports to: Sr. Creative Trend ManagerEQUAL OPPORTUNITY EMPLOYEER New Balance provides equal opportunities for all current and prospective associates to ensure that employment, training, compensation, transfer, promotion and other terms, conditions and privileges of employment are provided without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, handicap, genetic information and/or status as an Armed Forces service medal veteran, recently separated veteran, qualified disabled veteran or other protected veteran, or any other protected status.