Brand Manager

Manpower is currently seeking an interim Brand Manager, to work with our global FMCG client Unilever, renowned for brands such as Dove, Sure, Persil, and Simple, and become an integral part of their fast-paced FMCG environment.

The position is based in Kingston upon Thames, Surrey. This is a full-time temporary role to run for 12 Months (Maternity Cover), requiring 36.25 hours per week, Monday to Friday, to start ASAP. Compensation for this role is competitive, paying up to £61,000 per annum, pro rata, depending upon experience.
The role currently offers a mix of remote and onsite working, subject to adjustment based on business requirements.

Role Purpose:
Lead the cross-functional Nutrition team (marketing, CMC, CSP, Shopper, Finance, R&D, Supply Chain, Procurement + other functions) to deliver short and long-term performance of the Graze brand, across both the Savoury and Sweet portfolios. Delivery of in-year targets across internal top line USG and bottom line PBO with full P&L accountability, alongside external market share, penetration and brand power growth will be expected, with the ability to make trade-offs as required. This role supports the Marketing Manager in the development & responsibility of the Graze brand including marketing strategies, annual plans and pricing across the portfolio.

Role Responsibilities:

• Define and own brand strategy for the Graze brand, ensuring relevance to consumers' needs, (inc. Jobs to be Done & Integrated Business Plans)
• Build our Graze brand plan across all 6ps, including an NRM plan
• Generate powerful consumer insights that drive real growth and ensure excellent consumer experience across the full funnel - from awareness to conversion & retention, along end-to-end consumer journeys
• Implement breakthrough data strategies to leverage performance marketing and inform fast, bold decision making
• Supports Marketing Manager in the delivery of the Graze P&L and commercial execution of the in-year plans to achieve our annual performance ambi6ons in growth and profit delivery. Including S&OP, Fuel for Growth, Pricing strategies etc
• Align category development growth plans with Innovation team and own the market execution of NPD (inc. packaging design / communication & business case delivery)
• Generate and create communication ideas to activate through our agencies- from concept to deployment
• Line management of an Assistant Brand Manager

What we are looking for:

• A self-starter with an entrepreneurial and commercially savvy approach and the ability to balance future thinking with driving hands-on delivery and results. Passionate about building omnichannel, consumer-led brands & products.
• Worked in a brand management role (innovation role a bonus) within an FMCG environment, bringing solid knowledge and experience in managing smaller challenger brands.
• Experience in monitoring performance and making data-driven recommendations for future plans (Nielsen, Dunhumby, SIP)
• Skilled in recommending insight approaches and interpreting qualitative and quantitative data
• Excellent project management skills with an eye for detail and high standards of execution
• Be independent and resilient to work in a busy, fast-moving and complex environment, and have the confidence and maturity to engage and influence senior stakeholders
• A real foodie with a natural curiosity and consumer focus, with a keen eye for emerging trends

Kingston working environment:

• Contractors who are based at Kingston will be eligible to get free parking at a local carpark
• There is a Unilever Staff Shop located on the Ground Floor next to the main entrance, where Contingent Workers can buy discounted Unilever products.
• A canteen
• A Gym is available for use on the Ground Floor (with subscription).
• Facilities in the gym include cardiovascular equipment, resistance machines, spin bikes, free weights area, boxing equipment and a stretch/matted area. Classes are also available and can be booked directly with the Gym. Shower facilities are available in the changing rooms, along with hairdryers.