Sr. Brand Manager

Job Details Title: Sr. Brand Manager Description: 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 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 lifecycle 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 Salary: $110k + bonus Location: San Francisco Date: 02/17/2009 #J-18808-Ljbffr