The Senior Brand Manager, Toys, will lead new product development projects for a range of products within the Learning Toys business unit as well as managing an existing portfolio and will be responsible for defining marketing strategy across this business.The position requires strong knowledge of marketing principles and practices, the ability to lead cross-functional teams through new product development and launch processes, and the drive to execute a successful marketing and product plan through complete product lifecycles.A strong affinity for toys and/or the ongoing education and development of children, for any reason, is strongly preferred.
The Senior Brand Manager will report to the Senior Director of Product Marketing.
Key Responsibilities
Overall business management, including short, medium and long-term strategic planning
Develop annual and long-range marketing plans to meet product line revenue and profitability targets
Identify unique brand and product opportunities; defendable and compelling positionings based on analysis and understanding of consumer needs; and ambitious marketing communication objectives
Commission market research, category, trend and competitive analyses to identify compelling new product opportunities
Lead new product development efforts including setting direction on product definition, design and features/benefits
Work closely with content, product development and operations teams to achieve cost targets and ensure on-time market entry
Lead cross-functional portfolio management process:
New features & innovation projects
Cost improvement & refresh projects
End of Life projects
Liaise with International team to ensure all initiatives are maximized globally to their full potential
Conduct timely analysis of sales performance and execute effective reaction tactics
Be a product champion creating internal and external enthusiasm for the product line
Effectively interface with upper-management, executives, other departments, customers, vendors and outside contacts as an inspirational expert for the brand
Prepare presentations on a regular basis which are capable of selling and supporting your ideas through all levels of the business
Management of 1-2 employees
Knowledge & Skills
Demonstrated knowledge and application of marketing principles and practices
Experience working in a deadline oriented environment with a high attention to product quality
Hands on experience with brand and business management basics, product positioning, budgeting and packaging
Proven successful experience developing products and managing them through full life cycle
Experience within the Toy industry is preferred
Must be a self starter with energy, drive and determination to accomplish goals
Must possess a strong work ethic, which drives him/her on a daily basis to achieve goals
Must demonstrate leadership ability in motivating and guiding cross functional teams
Must be results oriented and will possess excellent analytical skills as well as a keen creative sense
Must have the ability to turn financial data into sound business decisions
Must have demonstrated the ability to multi-task in previous work environments and be able to set priorities, stay focused, and set clear milestones
Demonstrated ability to lead cross-functional teams and manage a major product line
Superior verbal and written communication skills are critical for this position
Must be able to manage product and organizational complexity and ambiguity
Must have supervisory experience
Education & Training
BS/BA with marketing emphasis or equivalent relevant experience
MBA with similar emphasis or equivalent relevant experience in Marketing preferred
5 + years marketing experience in a consumer-driven company – Toy company preferred
