Category Development & Innovation Director

Job Description

Department: Marketing Site Location: Ilupeju, LagosReports : Managing Director
Job Purpose:To lead the strategic development of category strategy, product innovation, oversight/management of category business plans, management and oversight of category development team to create competitive advantage in the marketplace for customers and consumers  to achieve overall business objectives.
Reporting Relationships:Peer RelationshipsAttach organization chart showing manager and direct reports as well as peers Peers are other members of the Leadership teamResponsible for the Category Development and Innovation Managers, Consumer Marketing Manager

Dimensions:Turnover of unitBudget responsibilityTeam SizeOther Turnover (NNS) of N 2.5 BilOP of N 400 MilNWC of 11% for the group
Principal Accountabilities:The key outputs of the jobList in priority order if possible, typically 8-10NOT a task listAny requirement for organizing & planning including own work and the allocation of resourcesTypical decisions made and if they are advisory or directly responsible for the outcome 1. To manage a team of Category Development Managers to plan and execute new, innovative strategic marketing programs to drive sales.To lead new product Insights & Ideation process as well as concept development, in order to deliver the new product innovations on prioritized business unit initiatives. Assess emerging industry, economic and competitive trends; synthesize insights.To drive formal consumer  insight programs in existing and new categories that will identify key consumer benefits, unmet needs and the opportunities for sustainable value creation of the brands. To oversee the development of category strategy and in conjunction with other functions, deliver business objectives and performance.To continuously identify product and category growth opportunities and help create plans to support execution with Sectors and Committed Customers.To take responsibility for creating, implementing and measuring the success of comprehensive marketing communication that will enhance the Organization’s image and position within the marketplace and the general public.Regularly communicates with procurement and distribution management teams to ensure a robust understanding of the market place, issues and opportunities so they can continuously update the clients and Customer RelationsTo plan and administer the marketing budget.Design, implement and facilitate annual marketing plan. Translate business unit objectives and strategies to develop brand portfolio objectives for business growth.Build and develop a marketing team which is competent, commercially astute, dedicated and efficient.
Internal & External Relationships:Identify the most significant onesAttach a preferred suppliers list if availableDetail which networks the jobholder will be part of e.g. finance, category
Suppliers – Haier, OEMsSupply chain – China and India office (PZ)Media agenciesSales team, Manufacturing, Finance, Logistics & After Sales Service

Knowledge, Skills & Experience Needed:List any qualifications required to do the jobBe specific about the experience neededFocus on type of experience not the time served 1. Bachelor’s degree (MBA preferred) with technical background.7+ years proven Marketing experience in consumer electronics/home appliances with at least 2yrs at a Director’s level.An in-depth understanding of the innovation process, as seen/experienced through the lens of a consumer.Evidence of an ability to work cross-functionally with colleagues for example in Sales, Finance, Supply Chain to attain business objectives.Proven experience in managing a P & L or budget, and deliver planned results.Demonstrated success defining and launching excellent products Strong grasp of core marketing concepts and successful track record of their application Project management experience Excellent written and verbal communication skills Excellent numerical, analytical skill and forecasting techniques Self starter & Excellent teamwork skills 
Job Context & Special Features:Explain any special features or context in which the job operatesDetail any language or mobility requirements 1. Willingness to travelCultural sensitivity