Trade Marketing Manager

Position Title : Trade Marketing Manager

The Trade Marketing Manager will serve as a key strategic leader, responsible for translating consumer marketing strategies into actionable sales plans. This role is pivotal in developing and executing trade marketing strategies across merchandising, pricing, assortment, and shelf management, ensuring alignment with corporate goals. The Trade Marketing Manager will collaborate closely with sales, marketing, finance, manufacturing, and distribution teams to stay ahead of business trends and optimize trade programs. Additionally, this role manages the trade promotion budget and provides insights through detailed performance analysis, driving continuous improvement and growth.

Key Responsibilities :

Develop and Execute Trade Marketing Plans : Implement strategic trade marketing programs, ensuring consistency in pricing, promotion, and distribution across channels.

Analyze Competitive Environment : Conduct ongoing assessments of the competitive landscape, identifying risks and opportunities, and developing action plans to maintain a competitive edge.

Monitor Trade Spending : Utilize relevant systems to track and manage trade spending, ensuring expenditures align with budgetary limits for both promotional and operational costs (e.g., unsaleables, deductions, rebills).

Evaluate Trade Program Effectiveness : Analyze customer and market data (consumption, shipment, panel data) to assess the success of trade promotions and provide actionable insights for improvement.

Cross-Functional Collaboration : Work closely with internal teams (sales, marketing, finance, etc.) to support new product development, demand forecasting, and category management initiatives.

Business Development Support : Participate in customer meetings and provide ad-hoc analysis for the executive team, contributing to business growth and strategy development.

Key Metrics / Dimensions :

Trade Promotion Budget Management : Oversee the deployment, tracking, and reconciliation of a multi-million-dollar annual trade promotion budget.

Performance Analysis : Provide critical insights and recommendations on trade marketing programs, supporting category reviews and business presentations.

Project Management : Manage multiple, concurrent projects effectively, often requiring extended hours and occasional travel.

Qualifications :

Education & Experience : Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field. 5+ years of experience in trade marketing or sales, ideally in the CPG industry (food sector preferred).

Technical Skills :

Advanced Excel proficiency (required)

Proficiency in PowerPoint & Word (important)

Strong analytical and financial skills , with the ability to interpret complex data and develop strategic recommendations.

Familiarity with trade marketing tools and systems (e.g., Gelco, IRI / Circana, Nielsen, or similar).

Leadership Skills : Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and interact with stakeholders at all levels.

Competencies :

Results-oriented mindset with a focus on bottom-line impact.

High energy level and resilience in fast-paced, high-pressure environments.

Strong communication and presentation skills.

Effective interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate and build relationships across teams.