Senior Strategic Accounts Manager

Senior Manager, Strategic Accounts (JD Sports)

VANS EMEA is looking for an outstanding Senior Manager, Strategic Accounts (JD Sports) to join our team based in Manchester, United Kingdom.

Reporting line to the Director, Wholesale EMEA, you will drive profitable and sustainable market share growth with JD Sports, representing the brand externally and the account internally as an ambassador towards all functions.

• Lead strategic key account management and develop a strategic account plan based on brand priorities.
• Create partnerships across all departments and key stakeholders to support account growth.
• Develop the strategic partnership with JD, delivering fiscal year and seasonal sales targets/forecasts based on the FY revenue budget.
• Work closely with wider sales team, operations, finance and marketing to keep the strategic accounts agenda a priority.
• Lead business review processes to create sustainable plans and mutually beneficial partnership.
• Execute relevant brand and sales strategies, channel strategy and SMU program when needed.
• Ensure efficient sell‑in, sales operations, G2N management and re‑order management.
• Track business progress by monitoring seasonal pre‑orders and participating in weekly calls and appropriate meetings.
• Partner with Marketplace merchandising to ensure Vans lands the most consumer and brand relevant assortment plan on a seasonal basis.
• Measure and track success in partnership with planning through commercial KPIs.
• Establish understanding of core consumers and account relevant buying trends to formulate consumer‑centric opportunities.
• Collaborate with Merchandising and Wholesale teams to ensure effective marketplace management and strong brand equity.

• Mandatory experience managing JD Sports as a key account, proven track record of directly handling the JD business, deep understanding of its operating model.
• Comprehensive understanding of the fashion/sports lifestyle marketplace and retail landscape.
• Strong commercial acumen, proven ability to drive sales growth, improve customer satisfaction, and optimize operational execution.
• Excellent communication and influencing skills, able to engage stakeholders at all levels across a matrix structure.
• Strong stakeholder management skills.
• Results‑driven mindset, strong sense of ownership and accountability.
• Strong analytical and numerical capabilities, ability to translate data into actionable insights.
• High level of proficiency in presenting and storytelling, both internally and externally.
• University degree in Business, Sales, or a related field (or equivalent experience).
• Passion for growth, innovation, and brand development.

• Supportive, feedback‑based culture with respect and integrity.
• Inclusive international environment.
• On‑site gym and health well‑being initiatives.
• Discount card with 50% on all VF brands.
• Free hot drinks in break‑out areas.
• Commitment to inclusion, diversity, and belonging.
• Equal opportunity and affirmative action employer.

VF is an equal employment opportunity employer of minorities, females, protected veterans and the disabled. VF is committed to providing equal opportunities in employment, and treating its associates and applicants without discrimination on the basis of race, color, gender, age, national origin, religion, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, marital status, citizenship, disability, protected veteran status, HIV/AIDS status, or any other legally protected factor.

VF is committed to meeting the diverse needs of people with disabilities in a timely manner consistent with principles of independence, dignity, integration and equality of opportunity.