π Core Information
πΉ Job Title: Associate Brand Manager
πΉ Company: The Hartz Mountain Corporation
πΉ Location: Secaucus, New Jersey
πΉ Job Type: Hybrid (3 days in-office, 2 days remote)
πΉ Category: Brand Management, Marketing
πΉ Date Posted: April 26, 2025
πΉ Experience Level: 0-2 years
πΉ Remote Status: On-site with hybrid flexibility
π Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Assisting in the development and execution of marketing and innovation/renovation plans
- Supporting daily business management in areas such as forecasting, new item development, and consumer communication
- Collaborating cross-functionally to execute plans and provide direction on day-to-day management of business issues and opportunities
- Analyzing sales performance key drivers and developing accurate forecasts
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a balance of strategic thinking and tactical execution, with a focus on driving sales growth and market share for assigned categories.
π Key Responsibilities
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Assist in the identification and development of new products, product improvements, packaging improvements, and line extensions
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Analyze and summarize results of market research and POS data
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Monitor and analyze sales performance key drivers and develop accurate forecasts
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Develop insightful, clear, and impactful sales presentations to support new products and educate on category trends/consumer understanding
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Maintain knowledge of key competitive activity, new products, product improvements, and market/channel trends within the category
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Assist in S.K.U. portfolio management for the category and inventory working closely with cross-functional team
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Assist in the execution of consumer communication/promotional support, working with Hartz agency of record on 360-degree consumer activation
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Provide support to cross-functional project team to execute plans and provide direction on day-to-day management of business issues and opportunities
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Provide support to forecast volume and work through S&OP process in conjunction with Sales, Operations Planning and other parties as appropriate
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Develop P&Lβs for new items/existing items to evaluate pricing/cost/trade support changes
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Partner closely with Marketing Coordinator in development/approval of packaging design
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Develop materials to execute consumer market research studies
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Help maintain IRI database integrity for their category
ASSUMPTION: This role involves a mix of strategic planning, data analysis, and cross-functional collaboration to drive brand success.
π― Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelorβs degree in Marketing, Business, or a related field is required with a minimum of 1-year experience in Consumer-Packaged Goods (CPG) Brand Management
Experience: 1 year of experience in Consumer-Packaged Goods (CPG) Brand Management
Required Skills:
- Analytical skills and working knowledge of IRI (Circana)/Nielsen POS and Panel Data
- Market analysis skills and experience conducting market research and P&L analysis
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite programs
- Willingness and ability to travel domestically a few times a year
Preferred Skills:
- Experience with pet care products or related industries
- Fluency in Spanish (bilingual)
ASSUMPTION: While 1 year of experience is required, candidates with relevant internships or projects may also be considered.
π° Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: $55,000 - $65,000 (Based on 1-year experience level in the CPG industry, Secaucus, NJ area)
Benefits:
- Hybrid Work Schedule (3 days in-office, 2 days remote)
- Pet-Friendly Culture
- Competitive Compensation & Benefits (401(k) match with immediate vesting)
- Generous Paid Time Off (up to 34 paid days off annually, plus additional paid leaves)
- Paid Parental Leave & Insurance (Company-paid parental leave, along with Life & Disability Insurance)
- Comprehensive Health Coverage (Medical, Dental, Vision, Healthcare FSA, and Mental Health Assistance program (EAP))
- Tuition Reimbursement & Career Growth
- Employee Perks (Volunteer opportunities, fun employee events, and more!)
Working Hours: Full-time, 40 hours per week
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for entry-level Brand Management roles in the CPG industry and the Secaucus, NJ area.
π Applicant Insights
π Company Context
Industry: Pet care products manufacturing
Company Size: 201-500 employees (Mid-size)
Founded: 1926 (97 years ago)
Company Description:
- Hartz is a pet care products manufacturer dedicated to providing innovative, trustworthy, and affordable products
- The company aims to strengthen the bond between pets and their families by offering a wide range of pet care solutions
- Hartz encourages a diverse, open, and inclusive culture, with employees and their pets thriving together in hybrid work environments
Company Specialties:
- Flea & Tick Drops and Collars
- Dog Treats and Cat Treats
- Dog Toys and Cat Toys
- Puppy Pads
Company Website: http://www.hartz.com
ASSUMPTION: Hartz is a well-established company in the pet care industry, with a strong focus on innovation and customer satisfaction.
π Role Analysis
Career Level: Entry-level to mid-level Brand Management role
Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the Brand Management Team
Work Arrangement: Hybrid (3 days in-office, 2 days remote) with occasional domestic travel
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential career progression within the Brand Management team or related marketing functions
- Opportunities to work on various brands and categories, gaining diverse experience
- Chance to develop skills in cross-functional collaboration, data analysis, and strategic planning
ASSUMPTION: This role offers opportunities for professional growth and development within the company's marketing department.
π Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Hybrid (3 days in-office, 2 days remote)
Office Location(s): Secaucus, New Jersey
Geographic Context:
- Secaucus is a suburban town located in Hudson County, New Jersey
- The area offers a mix of urban and suburban living, with easy access to New York City
- Secaucus is home to various industries, including manufacturing, retail, and logistics
Work Schedule: Full-time, 40 hours per week, with flexible remote work options
ASSUMPTION: The hybrid work arrangement offers a balance between in-office collaboration and remote flexibility.
πΌ Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application submission
- Phone or video screen with the HR department
- In-depth behavioral and technical interview with the Brand Management Team
- Final interview with the hiring manager or executive team
Key Assessment Areas:
- Problem-solving skills and analytical thinking
- Brand management and marketing knowledge
- Cross-functional collaboration and communication skills
- Adaptability and ability to work in a hybrid environment
Application Tips:
- Highlight relevant experience or projects in CPG Brand Management or related fields
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to emphasize skills and experiences mentioned in the job description
- Prepare examples of market research, data analysis, and strategic planning to discuss during the interview
ATS Keywords: Brand Management, CPG, Marketing, Market Research, P&L Analysis, IRI, Nielsen, POS Data, Consumer Communication, Product Development, Packaging Improvement, Cross-Functional Collaboration
ASSUMPTION: The interview process will focus on assessing the candidate's analytical skills, brand management knowledge, and cultural fit within the company.
π οΈ Tools & Technologies
- Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word)
- IRI (Circana) or Nielsen data analysis tools
- Project management and collaboration tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, Microsoft Teams)
ASSUMPTION: Familiarity with Microsoft Office Suite and data analysis tools is essential for this role.
π Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Pet-centric focus
- Innovation and continuous improvement
- Collaboration and teamwork
Work Style:
- Data-driven and analytical
- Adaptable and flexible, with a focus on results
- Collaborative and team-oriented
Self-Assessment Questions:
- Do you have a passion for pets and a deep understanding of pet care products?
- Are you comfortable working in a hybrid environment and collaborating with cross-functional teams?
- Do you possess strong analytical skills and enjoy working with data to drive strategic decisions?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates who share Hartz's passion for pets and demonstrate strong analytical skills and collaborative work styles will thrive in this role.
β οΈ Potential Challenges
- Balancing strategic thinking with tactical execution in a fast-paced environment
- Managing multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
- Occasional domestic travel for market research, consumer events, or trade shows
- Adapting to a hybrid work arrangement and maintaining productivity in both office and remote settings
ASSUMPTION: These challenges can be overcome with strong time management, prioritization, and communication skills.
π Similar Roles Comparison
- Compared to other entry-level Brand Management roles, this position offers a hybrid work arrangement and a focus on driving sales growth and market share
- In the pet care industry, this role requires a strong understanding of pet care products and consumer behavior
- Career progression in this role may lead to senior Brand Management positions or related marketing functions within the company
ASSUMPTION: This role offers unique opportunities and challenges compared to similar positions in the industry.
π Sample Projects
- Conducting market research to identify trends and opportunities in the pet care industry
- Developing and executing a marketing plan to launch a new pet care product
- Analyzing sales performance data to optimize pricing, promotions, and distribution strategies
ASSUMPTION: These projects demonstrate the range of responsibilities and skills required for this role.
β Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- What are the key priorities for this role in the first 30, 60, and 90 days?
- How does this role collaborate with other departments, such as R&D, Sales, and Operations?
- What opportunities are there for professional growth and development within the Brand Management team or related marketing functions?
- How does Hartz support work-life balance for employees working in a hybrid environment?
- What are the most challenging aspects of this role, and how can I best prepare to succeed in them?
ASSUMPTION: Asking these questions demonstrates your interest in the role and commitment to success.
π Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through this link: https://recruiting.paylocity.com/Recruiting/Jobs/Details/3228243
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences mentioned in the job description
- Prepare examples of market research, data analysis, and strategic planning to discuss during the interview
- Follow up with the HR department one week after submitting your application to confirm receipt and inquire about next steps
β οΈ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.