Associate Brand Manager

🔹 Job Title: Associate Brand Manager 🔹 Company: Kodiak Cakes 🔹 Location: Park City, Utah - On-Site / Hybrid 🔹 Job Type: Full-Time, Salaried (Exempt) - $85,000 - $95,000 per year 🔹 Category: Brand Management 🔹 Date Posted: May 15, 2025 🚀 Job Overview Key aspects of this role include: - Supporting the development and execution of brand strategy, positioning, and marketing plans in close collaboration with the Director of Brand Management - Analyzing brand, category, and competitive performance to identify insights and inform decisions - Managing the details that keep the business running while maintaining focus on long-term goals - Partnering cross-functionally with teams such as sales, R&D, supply chain, finance, and consumer insights to ensure seamless execution of project and marketing initiatives - Contributing to product renovation, innovation, packaging updates, and promotional planning - Supporting consumer research initiatives and distilling findings into actionable insights that shape category direction and innovation - Helping develop internal integrated business planning content and external customer-facing and board of directors’ presentations - Supporting in forecasting and demand planning - Managing category marketing budgets, setting clear strategic objectives, performance metrics (KPIs), and ROI targets - Participating in the review process for marketing content and assets *ASSUMPTION:* This role requires a high level of organization, attention to detail, and the ability to balance both strategic thinking and tactical execution. The ideal candidate will be comfortable working in a fast-paced, dynamic environment and have a strong understanding of the CPG industry. 📋 Key Responsibilities ✅ Support the development and execution of brand strategy, positioning, and marketing plans in collaboration with the Director of Brand Management ✅ Analyze brand, category, and competitive performance to identify insights and inform decisions ✅ Manage the details that keep the business running while maintaining focus on long-term goals ✅ Partner cross-functionally with various teams to ensure seamless execution of project and marketing initiatives ✅ Contribute to product renovation, innovation, packaging updates, and promotional planning ✅ Support consumer research initiatives and distill findings into actionable insights that shape category direction and innovation ✅ Help develop internal integrated business planning content and external customer-facing and board of directors’ presentations ✅ Support in forecasting and demand planning ✅ Manage category marketing budgets, set clear strategic objectives, performance metrics (KPIs), and ROI targets ✅ Participate in the review process for marketing content and assets *ASSUMPTION:* The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of marketing fundamentals, the 4Ps, and experience with syndicated data tools like Nielsen or Circana. Familiarity with the CPG food industry is highly preferred. 🎯 Required Qualifications Education: - Bachelor’s degree required Experience: - 2-4 years of relevant experience in brand management, marketing, or strategy. CPG food industry experience highly preferred Required Skills: - A combination of analytical rigor and creative problem-solving; able to zoom in on details and zoom out to see the bigger picture - Demonstrated ability to work hard, follow through on tasks, and take initiative in a fast-paced environment - Strong understanding of marketing fundamentals and the 4Ps - Familiarity with syndicated data tools like Nielsen or Circana is a plus - Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written - Highly organized with a strong attention to detail and a drive for accuracy - Natural collaborator who thrives in cross-functional environments - Passion for building consumer-centric brands and delivering meaningful results Preferred Skills: - Experience with specific marketing software or tools - Knowledge of the outdoor industry or active lifestyle trends - Proficiency in data analysis and visualization tools *ASSUMPTION:* Candidates should be comfortable working in a dynamic, entrepreneurial environment and have a strong desire to learn and grow within the company. 💰 Compensation & Benefits Salary Range: $85,000 - $95,000 per year (Ultimate salary will depend on experience, skills, and other factors) Benefits: - Health, vision, and dental plans - 401k match - Relocation assistance - Annual performance bonus - Company fleet of snowboards and other equipment - Active lifestyle allowance - Therapy benefit - All-you-can-eat flapjacks - Flexible vacation - Early-out Fridays - Parental leave - Casual dress code - A variety of other Kodiak-unique perks *ASSUMPTION:* The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for similar roles in the CPG food industry. The actual salary may vary depending on the candidate's qualifications and experience. 📌 Applicant Insights 🔍 Company Context Industry: Food and Beverage Services Company Size: 51-200 employees Founded: 1995 Company Description: - Kodiak Cakes is a rapidly growing food company focused on disrupting the industry with better-for-you breakfast and snacking options - The company's journey began by restoring the tradition of whole grain flapjacks and adding protein to fuel folks' adventures - Kodiak Cakes is expanding rapidly and looking to build its team with passionate individuals who share their commitment to outdoor lifestyles and natural, good-for-you food Company Specialties: - Whole grain flapjack mixes - Toaster waffles - Baking mixes - Oatmeal - Syrup - Snacking options Company Website: *ASSUMPTION:* Kodiak Cakes is known for its innovative approach to the food industry, focusing on natural, better-for-you products that taste great and fuel active lifestyles. 📊 Role Analysis Career Level: Mid-level Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the Director of Brand Management and may oversee junior brand managers or marketing coordinators. Work Arrangement: Hybrid - On-site and remote work with a focus on collaboration and team building Growth Opportunities: - Potential to advance to a senior brand management role or take on additional responsibilities as the company grows - Opportunities to work on special projects and initiatives that drive the brand's success - Exposure to various aspects of the business, including R&D, sales, and consumer insights, fostering a well-rounded understanding of the brand management function *ASSUMPTION:* This role offers numerous growth opportunities for the right candidate, including the chance to make a significant impact on the brand's success and contribute to the company's overall mission. 🌍 Location & Work Environment Office Type: Hybrid - On-site and remote work with a focus on collaboration and team building Office Location(s): - 3247 Santa Fe Road, Park City, UT 84098, US Geographic Context: - Park City, Utah, is a scenic mountain town known for its world-class skiing and outdoor recreation opportunities - The area offers a high quality of life with easy access to nature, cultural attractions, and a vibrant food and beverage scene - The company's headquarters is located near the ski slopes and mountain trails, providing employees with ample opportunities for outdoor activities Work Schedule: - Flexible hours with a focus on results and collaboration - The hybrid work arrangement allows for a balance between on-site collaboration and remote work, fostering a flexible and adaptable work environment *ASSUMPTION:* The company's location in Park City, Utah, offers a unique blend of outdoor recreation, cultural attractions, and a thriving food and beverage scene, providing employees with a high quality of life and ample opportunities for outdoor activities. 💼 Interview & Application Insights Typical Process: 1. Online application review 2. Phone or video screening 3. In-person or virtual interview with the hiring manager 4. Final interview with key stakeholders 5. Background check and offer extension Key Assessment Areas: - Problem-solving skills and analytical thinking - Communication and collaboration abilities - Cultural fit and alignment with Kodiak Cakes' mission and values - Industry-specific knowledge and experience Application Tips: - Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant experience and skills for this specific role - Showcase your understanding of the CPG food industry and marketing fundamentals - Demonstrate your passion for outdoor lifestyles and natural, better-for-you food - Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on problem-solving, collaboration, and adaptability ATS Keywords: - Brand Management - Marketing - Strategy - CPG Food Industry - Syndicated Data Tools - Marketing Fundamentals - 4Ps - Consumer Research - Project Management - Budget Management - Forecasting - Cross-Functional Collaboration - Outdoor Lifestyles - Natural Foods *ASSUMPTION:* The interview process at Kodiak Cakes is designed to assess candidates' problem-solving skills, cultural fit, and industry-specific knowledge. Applicants should be prepared to discuss their relevant experience and demonstrate their understanding of the CPG food industry and marketing fundamentals. 🛠️ Tools & Technologies - Marketing software and tools (e.g., Google Analytics, Tableau, Power BI) - Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) - Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, Jira) - Consumer research tools (e.g., SurveyMonkey, Typeform) - Data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, R, Python) *ASSUMPTION:* Familiarity with relevant marketing software, project management tools, and data analysis platforms is highly desirable for this role. 👔 Cultural Fit Considerations Company Values: - Passion for the outdoors and active lifestyles - Commitment to natural, better-for-you food - Collaboration and teamwork - Innovation and adaptability - Results-driven and accountable Work Style: - Entrepreneurial and dynamic - Focused on results and continuous improvement - Balanced approach to work and life - Strong sense of ownership and responsibility Self-Assessment Questions: 1. How do you balance your passion for the outdoors with your commitment to your work? 2. Describe a time when you had to adapt to a significant change in your work environment. How did you handle it, and what was the outcome? 3. How do you prioritize your workload when faced with multiple projects or deadlines? 4. Can you provide an example of a time when you had to collaborate with cross-functional teams to achieve a common goal? What was the outcome? 5. How do you stay up-to-date with industry trends and consumer preferences in the CPG food industry? *ASSUMPTION:* Kodiak Cakes values candidates who are passionate about the outdoors, committed to natural, better-for-you food, and able to thrive in an entrepreneurial, dynamic work environment. ⚠️ Potential Challenges 1. The fast-paced, dynamic nature of the role may require candidates to adapt quickly to changing priorities and workloads 2. The hybrid work arrangement may present challenges in maintaining effective communication and collaboration with remote team members 3. The role may require occasional travel to attend industry events, trade shows, or consumer research initiatives 4. The competitive nature of the CPG food industry may present challenges in maintaining market share and driving brand growth *ASSUMPTION:* Candidates should be prepared to face these potential challenges and demonstrate their ability to adapt, collaborate, and thrive in a dynamic, competitive environment. 📈 Similar Roles Comparison 1. This role differs from related positions in its focus on brand management and marketing strategy for multiple categories, rather than a single brand or product line 2. The CPG food industry experience is highly preferred, as it provides a unique understanding of the market dynamics and consumer behavior specific to this sector 3. Career paths in brand management may vary depending on the company's size, structure, and growth trajectory. At Kodiak Cakes, there may be opportunities to take on additional responsibilities or advance to senior roles as the company grows *ASSUMPTION:* This role offers a unique opportunity to work on multiple brands and categories within a growing, entrepreneurial company, providing candidates with a diverse range of experiences and growth opportunities. 📝 Sample Projects 1. Developing a comprehensive brand strategy and marketing plan for a new product launch, including consumer research, competitive analysis, and positioning 2. Managing a product renovation project, including packaging updates, reformulation, and relaunch strategy 3. Conducting a consumer research initiative to understand consumer preferences, behaviors, and unmet needs within a specific category 4. Collaborating with cross-functional teams to develop and execute a successful promotional campaign, driving brand awareness and sales growth *ASSUMPTION:* These sample projects illustrate the diverse range of responsibilities and initiatives that an Associate Brand Manager at Kodiak Cakes may undertake, showcasing the role's strategic and tactical aspects. ❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview 1. What are the key priorities for this role in the first 30-60-90 days? 2. How does this role fit into the company's long-term growth plans? 3. What are the most significant challenges facing the brand or category, and how can this role help address them? 4. How does the company support the professional development and growth of its employees? 5. What is the company's approach to work-life balance, and how is it implemented in this role? *ASSUMPTION:* These key questions help applicants better understand the role's priorities, challenges, and growth opportunities, as well as the company's commitment to employee development and work-life balance. 📐 Next Steps for Applicants To apply for this position: 1. Submit your application through the following link: [Application URL] 2. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant experience and skills for this specific role 3. Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on problem-solving, collaboration, and adaptability 4. Research the company and industry to demonstrate your understanding of Kodiak Cakes' mission and values 5. Follow up with the hiring manager after your interview to express your interest in the role and reiterate your qualifications ⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.