United Beverage Company is seeking a dynamic and results-driven Brand Specialist to lead the development and execution of trade marketing strategies. The successful candidate will collaborate with cross-functional teams to implement promotional campaigns, secure optimal product placement, and ensure in-store marketing efforts align with business objectives. This role will also be responsible for managing relationships with key retailers and distributors to strategically promote and display UBC’s products, enhancing visibility, driving market growth, and ensuring strong brand representation across retail channels.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop comprehensive trade marketing plans tailored to different retail channels, including the planning and execution of promotional campaigns in key outlets to maximize product visibility, consumer engagement, and sales performance.
• Establish and cultivate strong, long-term relationships with key retailers and distributors, while overseeing the provision of trade marketing services to retain existing clients and enhance engagement.
• Ensure serving as the primary point of contact for retailers, coordinating trade marketing initiatives, ensuring timely execution of promotional activities, and addressing any marketing-related needs or adjustments.
• Conduct periodic meetings with key retail partners to review performance, enhance collaboration, and identify opportunities for growth through trade marketing initiatives.
• Monitor and ensure the timely implementation of trade marketing strategies, including promotional calendars, merchandising guidelines, activation initiatives, and communication to field sales, while ensuring compliance with the trade marketing budget.
• Collaborate with retailers to secure prime shelf space, in-store promotions, and effective point-of-sale displays that boost product visibility and sales.
• Manage New Product Development (NPD) initiatives and launch new products in line with trade marketing plans.
• Track and evaluate the effectiveness of promotional activities, adjusting trade marketing strategies to improve performance and outcomes.
• Analyse market trends and competitor activities, using data insights to adjust trade marketing strategies and drive product growth.
• Utilize best-in-class insights to identify potential customer strategies and develop customer-focused programs and promotions in collaboration with Sales Teams.
• Drive business expansion by identifying new growth opportunities within retail channels and contributing to overall company growth through effective trade marketing strategies.
• Negotiate promotional deals, product placements, and retail marketing agreements to secure favourable terms and product visibility for UBC.
• Collaborate with Sales Teams to ensure the alignment of trade marketing efforts with overall business objectives.
• Engage with Sales and Production Teams to provide the needed input and improve forecast accuracy.

Skills

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business Administration, or a related field.
• 5+ years of experience in trade marketing, brand management, or related roles within the FMCG or retail sector.
• Strong understanding of retail marketing, merchandising, and promotional strategy.
• Proven experience in managing retail relationships and executing brand visibility initiatives.
• Excellent analytical, negotiation, and communication skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and data analysis tools.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to manage teams and cross-functional projects.
• High attention to detail, creativity, and ability to work in a fast-paced environment.