Location: Tokyo, Japan
Role Overview
This position oversees brand development and marketing execution for a portfolio of premium spirits brands, including Monkey Shoulder and Hendrick’s Gin. The Brand Manager will work closely with the Marketing Manager to drive brand growth, ensure effective strategic planning, and implement impactful marketing programs across the Japanese market.
The role spans the full spectrum of brand management—from strategic planning and budgeting to campaign development, execution, and performance analysis. The Brand Manager also works cross-functionally with internal teams such as Finance and Supply Chain, as well as external agencies and partners, to ensure the successful execution of brand strategies and drive business results.
Key Responsibilities
🔹 Strategic Planning & Business Development
Act as a strategic partner to the Marketing Manager
Develop annual business plans, forecasts, and growth strategies to maximize brand profitability and market share
Translate global brand strategies into localized, actionable marketing plans
Analyze market trends, consumer behavior, and competitor activities to inform strategic direction
Manage brand budgets, monitor A&P spend, and ensure efficient allocation of resources
🔹 Campaign Execution & Performance Management
Represent and champion the brands both internally and externally
Lead the execution of marketing initiatives including advertising (ATL), brand activations, events, and trade marketing across on- and off-premise channels
Work with internal stakeholders and agencies to develop creative briefs, media strategies, and customer/shopper marketing plans
Monitor brand performance, category trends, and marketing effectiveness to adjust strategies as needed
Collaborate with insights teams to gather and leverage consumer and market data
Provide regular reports, performance reviews, and documentation to internal stakeholders and global teams
🔹 Stakeholder Collaboration
Serve as the key liaison between local teams and international brand owners to align objectives
Prepare and present brand plans and business reviews to leadership
Foster collaboration across marketing, sales, finance, and external agencies
Organize brainstorming sessions and workshops to drive innovation and alignment
Promote diversity and inclusion within the team and marketing activities
Required Qualifications
Minimum 5 years of relevant marketing experience
Forward-thinking and entrepreneurial mindset
Strong analytical skills with the ability to translate data into actionable insights
Proven ability to manage multiple projects and meet deadlines
Strong organizational and project management skills
Collaborative leadership style with experience working across diverse teams and stakeholders
Excellent communication skills in both Japanese and English (spoken and written)
Comfortable presenting and explaining plans and results in a clear, compelling way
Willingness to travel internationally and participate in events (including evenings/weekends as required)
Adaptable, resilient, and committed to ethical business conduct