Key Account Manager - Fashion, Footwear, And Apparel

Purpose of the role

In this role, you will own and grow relationships with key fashion and lifestyle wholesale partners, acting as a strategic driver of revenue, brand presence, and cultural relevance.

With a strong understanding of the fashion ecosystem, you’ll connect the dots between product, influencer marketing, PR activations, and commercial success.

You’ll ensure that adidas is seen not just as a sportswear brand—but a fashion-forward leader with a credible voice in streetwear and lifestyle.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Lead and develop strategic account plans for key fashion/lifestyle wholesale partners (e.g. concept stores, trend retailers, premium online boutiques), driving both sell-in and sell-out performance.
• Act as the primary contact for wholesale accounts with fashion influence—building long-term relationships based on credibility, trend alignment, and mutual brand elevation.
• Collaborate on seasonal go-to-market process: from product segmentation and line reviews to tailored storytelling, and influencer-led campaign integration.
• Identify whitespace opportunities within accounts for exclusive capsules, curated product edits, and limited-edition drops.
• Partner with PR, brand communications, and influencer teams to co-create high-impact campaigns (e.g. Fashion Week moments, store launches, digital collabs) tied to wholesale activations.
• Translate data, fashion insights, and market feedback into business strategies that elevate adidas’ brand image across trend-forward retailers and digital platforms.
• Monitor and influence orderbook management, conversion, and replenishment processes to maximize account productivity and availability of hero styles.
• Liaise with the marketing team to boost product presentation, social presence, and campaign execution across digital and in-store environments.
• Conduct regular market and competitor analysis (SWOT) to stay ahead of trends and advise product and merchandising teams on assortment needs.
• Collaborate closely with internal functions (GTM, FP&A, demand planning) to drive account growth and operational excellence.
• Track and report on performance KPIs, ensuring both short-term sales targets and long-term brand equity goals are met.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities

• Proven track record in key account management or sales within the fashion, streetwear, or lifestyle industry.
• Deep understanding of fashion trends, cultural drivers, influencer ecosystems, and the intersection of product and storytelling.
• Strong commercial mindset with the ability to balance brand elevation and business results.
• Confident communicator with credibility in buyer meetings, internal stakeholder briefings, and creative discussions.
• Strategic thinking and analytical skills; able to interpret performance data and market signals into actionable account strategies.
• Agile, collaborative, and entrepreneurial approach, with a hands-on attitude in a fast-moving environment.
• Advanced proficiency in Excel, PowerPoint; knowledge of SAP, Power BI is a plus.
• Fluent in Italian and English.

Education & Experience

• University degree in Fashion Management, Business, Marketing, or Communications.
• 3–5 years of relevant experience in fashion wholesale, key account management, and retail luxury goods.
• Strong network within the fashion, streetwear, and media/influencer space is highly desirable.