Read on FashionNetwork.comMelissa Worth Departs as New Balance Americas SVP: Leadership Transition at Sportswear Giant
Melissa Worth, the Senior Vice President for the Americas at New Balance, has announced her departure from the American sportswear company after seven years. In a LinkedIn post, Worth expressed gratitude for her tenure, highlighting the brand's significant growth and the team's achievements during her leadership. Her successor has not yet been named. This executive change follows other high-profile brand moves by New Balance in 2025, including the appointment of global ambassador Rosalía.
New Balance, a cornerstone of the American sportswear industry, is undergoing a significant leadership transition. Melissa Worth, the Senior Vice President for the Americas, has announced her departure from the company, as confirmed by a recent LinkedIn post. This move marks the end of a seven-year chapter for a key executive who helped steer the brand through a period of notable expansion and milestone achievements.
Melissa Worth's Tenure and Departure Announcement
Melissa Worth joined New Balance seven years ago, bringing with her a wealth of experience from senior roles at other prominent U.S. fashion and retail companies, including Perry Ellis International and TJX. Her career trajectory positioned her as a seasoned leader within the competitive apparel sector. In her farewell message on LinkedIn, Worth reflected on her time with the brand, stating, "I’m closing this chapter at New Balance with immense gratitude—for the journey, the growth, and most of all, the people who made it unforgettable." She emphasized the privilege of leading her team and the collective business accomplishments achieved during her tenure.
Impact on New Balance and the Americas Business
During her seven years as SVP for the Americas, Worth oversaw substantial growth for the New Balance brand in a critical market. In her post, she highlighted breaking through "milestone after milestone," attributing the success to the team's talent and ambition. The Americas region is a vital revenue driver for global sportswear brands, and stable leadership is crucial for maintaining market position against rivals like Nike and Adidas. The company has not yet announced a successor for Worth's role, leaving a key leadership position in flux as the brand plans for the future.
Context and Recent Brand Moves
Worth's departure occurs within a year of other strategic brand initiatives by New Balance. Earlier in 2025, the company unveiled Spanish pop star Rosalía as its new global brand ambassador. This high-profile partnership was marked by a cinematic campaign that began at the New Balance headquarters in Boston, signaling the brand's continued focus on cultural relevance and marketing innovation. Executive changes are a natural part of corporate evolution, and New Balance's recent activities suggest a brand actively shaping its public image and market strategy.
Looking Ahead for New Balance
The search for a new Americas SVP will be a critical task for New Balance's executive team. The incoming leader will inherit a business that, according to Worth's account, is on a strong growth trajectory. The company's ability to seamlessly transition leadership will be tested as it navigates the dynamic retail landscape and continues to execute on its brand vision. For now, the industry watches for the official announcement of Worth's successor and her next career move, which she has not yet disclosed.
