Brand Manager x Global Innovation + NPD Full Time NEW

Summary:

We are seeking an innovative and forward-thinking Brand Manager to support the development and growth of our consumer products portfolio with a strong focus on innovation. In this role, you will drive new product development, create breakthrough marketing strategies, and explore creative ways to meet evolving consumer needs. You will work closely with cross-functional teams to bring innovative products to market, enhance existing offerings, and ensure that the brand remains a leader in the competitive CPG landscape.

Essential Duties & Responsibilities:

Innovation Leadership:

Support Senior Manager + Senior Director in identifying and executing new product ideas, innovations, and portfolio enhancements. Work closely with the sales, finance, R&D, product development, and design teams to develop products that meet emerging consumer needs, trends, and market gaps.

Project & Portfolio Management:

Seamlessly track multiple projects within a portfolio in a multi-year pipeline. Ensure innovation aligns with business objectives and manage risks to drive successful project outcomes. Facilitate cross-functional collaboration, monitor project performance, and implement best practices for efficiency and innovation.

Product Development:

Support the Senior Manager in managing the lifecycle of new products from ideation to launch. Work cross-functionally with product development, R&D, and design teams to ensure products align with brand values and consumer needs. Champion innovation within the brand by prioritizing creative, unique product offerings.

Consumer Insights & Trend Analysis:

Analyze market trends, consumer insights, and competitor activities to identify innovation opportunities. Leverage these insights and partner with the Sales team to drive creative solutions, develop forward-thinking products, and refine brand strategy to stay ahead of the competition.

Creative Campaign Execution:

Support the development and execution of creative marketing campaign briefs that bring new innovation products to market. Understanding various channels, including digital, social media, in-store, and experiential marketing, to generate buzz around new product launches and reinforce the brand’s innovative image. Partner with the Marketing Comms, Shopper Marketing, and Sales team to ensure the campaigns and marketing activities are relevant and meaningful.

Collaboration & Cross-Functional Leadership:

Work closely with cross-functional teams, including R&D, sales, product development, creative, finance, packaging, operations, creative, and the PMO team to ensure alignment on innovation initiatives. Drive collaborative efforts to bring innovative products to market while ensuring that marketing strategies align with company goals.

Consumer-Centric Thinking:

Ensure that all innovation efforts focus on meeting the evolving needs and desires of the consumer. Champion a customer-first mentality in product design, marketing, and communication strategies.

Brand Stewardship:

Ensure that all new product innovations align with and enhance the brand’s equity. Protect and elevate the brand’s identity, ensuring that innovation efforts are consistent with brand values and messaging across all channels.

Market & Competitive Analysis:

Stay on top of emerging trends, industry innovations, and competitive activity. Use this information to inspire and guide product innovation and marketing strategies, keeping the brand fresh and relevant in a rapidly changing market.

Performance Metrics & Reporting:

Track the performance of innovation-driven initiatives and product launches, using key metrics such as sales, consumer feedback, and brand health. Regularly report on the success and challenges of innovation efforts to senior leadership and make data-driven recommendations for future improvements.

Required Skills / Experience / Competencies:

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, or a related field.
• 4+ years of experience in brand management, marketing, or innovation roles, preferably within the CPG industry and or regulated products category (OTC, sunscreens, etc.).
• Demonstrated experience in driving innovation and leading new product development initiatives.
• Strong understanding of consumer behavior, market research, and trend forecasting.
• Experience in managing the full product development lifecycle, from concept to commercialization.
• Creative thinking with the ability to develop innovative, differentiated products and marketing campaigns.
• Proven ability to collaborate effectively across multiple departments and lead cross-functional teams.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to influence key stakeholders.
• Proficient in Excel, building workback calendars, tracking projects, presenting financial overviews.
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to leverage data and consumer insights to drive decisions.
• Proven ability to build decks and financial overviews, translating complex data into clear, strategic presentations for executive teams.
• Proficiency in sales, marketing and analytics tools, including Nielsen, WGSN, PowerBI

Preferred Skills / Experience / Competencies:

• Experience in launching new products in the CPG industry, particularly in innovation-driven categories with regulated products.
• Knowledge of digital marketing, e-commerce, and social media strategies for launching innovative products.
• Understanding of different retail channels – Mass, Drug, Beauty, Specialty
• Familiarity with design thinking and agile innovation processes.
• Strong passion for consumer-centric innovation and staying ahead of market trends.

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