S

Associate Brand Manager

Smithfield Foods
Full-time
On-site
Smithfield, Virginia, United States
🎨 Brand & Creative Marketing

πŸ“Œ Core Information

πŸ”Ή Job Title: Associate Brand Manager

πŸ”Ή Company: Smithfield Foods

πŸ”Ή Location: Smithfield, Virginia

πŸ”Ή Job Type: Full-Time, On-Site

πŸ”Ή Category: Marketing

πŸ”Ή Date Posted: June 2, 2025

πŸ”Ή Experience Level: Intermediate (2-5 years)

πŸ”Ή Remote Status: On-site

πŸš€ Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

  • Leveraging data-driven insights to maximize brand profitability
  • Collaborating cross-functionally to deliver superior products
  • Developing marketing strategies and brand plans
  • Managing product quality, innovation, pricing, distribution, and promotion
  • Working with internal teams and external partners to implement marketing and innovation plans

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strategic mindset, strong analytical skills, and the ability to work effectively in a team environment.

πŸ“‹ Key Responsibilities

βœ… Analyze market trends and consumer behaviors to inform marketing and product strategies

βœ… Develop category strategies and conduct ongoing business analyses to align brand performance with business objectives

βœ… Collaborate with Insights to lead consumer research initiatives for targeting, product optimization, and brand development

βœ… Manage budgeting, coupon forecasting, and invoicing, while supporting legal approvals for external documents and contracts

βœ… Assist in creating sales presentations, implementing customer marketing plans, and distributing tools for Sales teams

βœ… Engage in strategic meetings with Business Management and Sales to drive brand initiatives

βœ… Build and maintain agency relationships, preparing internal and external brand presentations

βœ… Contribute to the development and execution of annual marketing plans

βœ… Provide feedback to agency partners and test consumer messaging concepts to optimize campaigns

βœ… Collaborate with Sales to develop strategic partnerships with retail partners

βœ… Participate in product development by identifying target audiences, gathering consumer insights, creating product propositions, and evaluating market potential

βœ… Engage in creative brainstorming exercises and concept testing to refine innovation and product pipelines

βœ… Work closely with functional teams to launch new products and optimize existing ones

βœ… Drive a positive employee experience through leadership, employee development, and coaching

ASSUMPTION: This role involves a mix of strategic planning, data analysis, and cross-functional collaboration, requiring strong organizational skills and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Bachelor’s Degree in Marketing or a related field

Experience: 3+ years of relevant experience

Required Skills:

  • Strong quantitative and analytical skills
  • Excellent communication skills
  • Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)
  • Ability to prioritize projects and deliver high-value, quality outcomes
  • Ability to work effectively in dynamic, team-oriented environments

Preferred Skills:

  • MBA in Marketing or related field
  • Consumer marketing experience with a CPG company in food
  • Willingness to travel up to 15% as needed

ASSUMPTION: Candidates with an MBA and relevant consumer marketing experience in the food industry will have a competitive advantage.

πŸ’° Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $65,000 - $85,000 per year (Based on industry standards for an Intermediate Marketing role in Virginia)

Benefits:

  • Medical Plans
  • Be Well Programs
  • Tuition Assistance
  • Education Reimbursement Program
  • Smithfield Scholarship Program
  • Apprenticeship Programs
  • Professional Development Programs

Working Hours: 40 hours per week, with flexibility for meetings and project deadlines

ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards and may vary depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications.

πŸ“Œ Applicant Insights

πŸ” Company Context

Industry: Smithfield Foods operates in the Food and Beverage Manufacturing industry, with a leading position in packaged meats and fresh pork products.

Company Size: Smithfield Foods has 10,001+ employees, providing ample opportunities for career growth and development.

Founded: Smithfield Foods was founded in 1936 and has since grown into a global food company with a diverse brand portfolio and strong relationships with U.S. farmers and customers.

Company Description:

  • Smithfield Foods is an American food company with a leading position in packaged meats and fresh pork products.
  • The company responsibly meets demand for quality protein around the world through its diverse brand portfolio and strong relationships with U.S. farmers and customers.
  • Smithfield Foods is committed to workplace diversity and is an equal opportunity employer.

Company Specialties:

  • Bacon
  • BBQ
  • Breakfast Sausage
  • Smoked Sausage
  • Dry Sausage
  • Deli Meat
  • Ham
  • Hot Dogs
  • Packaged Lunchmeat
  • Marinated Pork
  • Prepared Foods
  • Hog Production
  • Animal Agriculture
  • Food & Beverage
  • Internships
  • Farming
  • and Manufacturing

Company Website: http://www.smithfieldfoods.com/giwwd

ASSUMPTION: Smithfield Foods' extensive experience and diverse product portfolio provide a stable and growth-oriented work environment for employees.

πŸ“Š Role Analysis

Career Level: This role is an intermediate-level position, offering opportunities for career growth and development within the Marketing department and the broader organization.

Reporting Structure: The Associate Brand Manager reports directly to the Brand Manager and works closely with cross-functional teams, including Sales, Insights, and Product Development.

Work Arrangement: This role is on-site, with a requirement to travel up to 15% as needed for meetings, events, and other business-related activities.

Growth Opportunities:

  • Progression to a Brand Manager role with increased responsibilities and leadership opportunities
  • Expansion into other areas of Marketing, such as Advertising, Consumer Insights, or Product Development
  • Potential international assignments or roles within Smithfield Foods' global operations

ASSUMPTION: Successful candidates will have a strong desire to learn, grow, and take on new challenges as they progress in their careers.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: Smithfield Foods' headquarters is a modern, professional office environment with amenities and resources to support employee productivity and well-being.

Office Location(s): 200 Commerce Street, Smithfield, Virginia 23430, US

Geographic Context:

  • Smithfield, Virginia, is located in the Hampton Roads metropolitan area, offering a mix of urban and rural living options.
  • The area is known for its rich history, cultural attractions, and outdoor recreation opportunities.
  • Smithfield is approximately 50 miles southeast of Richmond, Virginia, and 70 miles east of Raleigh, North Carolina.

Work Schedule: The standard workweek is Monday through Friday, with flexibility for meetings and project deadlines as needed.

ASSUMPTION: The Smithfield, Virginia, location offers a pleasant work environment with easy access to amenities and resources to support a healthy work-life balance.

πŸ’Ό Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

  • Online application submission
  • Phone or video screening
  • In-person or virtual interview with the hiring manager and/or team members
  • Final interview with senior leadership

Key Assessment Areas:

  • Problem-solving skills and analytical thinking
  • Communication and interpersonal skills
  • Cultural fit and alignment with Smithfield Foods' values
  • Strategic mindset and ability to develop and execute marketing plans

Application Tips:

  • Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for this role
  • Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your problem-solving skills, teamwork, and adaptability
  • Research Smithfield Foods' products, brands, and competitors to demonstrate your industry knowledge and enthusiasm for the role

ATS Keywords: Brand Management, Data Proficiency, Communication Skills, Project Management, Team Collaboration, Technical Skills, Leadership, Advertising Management, Innovation Management

ASSUMPTION: The interview process for this role will focus on assessing the candidate's strategic thinking, analytical skills, and cultural fit within the Marketing department and the broader organization.

πŸ› οΈ Tools & Technologies

  • Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)
  • Syndicated data tools (e.g., Nielsen, IRI)
  • Project management software (e.g., Asana, Trello)
  • Marketing automation tools (e.g., Marketo, HubSpot)

ASSUMPTION: Familiarity with relevant marketing tools and technologies will be beneficial for success in this role.

πŸ‘” Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

  • Integrity
  • Respect
  • Excellence
  • Responsibility
  • Innovation

Work Style:

  • Collaborative and team-oriented
  • Data-driven and analytical
  • Adaptable and responsive to change
  • Results-focused and goal-oriented

Self-Assessment Questions:

  • Do you thrive in a dynamic, team-oriented environment?
  • Are you comfortable working with data and using it to inform strategic decisions?
  • Do you have a proven track record of delivering high-value, quality outcomes in a fast-paced setting?

ASSUMPTION: Successful candidates will demonstrate a strong cultural fit with Smithfield Foods' values and work style, as well as a passion for driving results and continuous learning.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

  • Managing multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
  • Working with cross-functional teams and external partners to align on brand initiatives
  • Adapting to changes in the market and consumer behavior
  • Balancing strategic planning with day-to-day tactical tasks

ASSUMPTION: Prospective candidates should be prepared to manage competing priorities, adapt to change, and thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

πŸ“ˆ Similar Roles Comparison

  • Compared to other Brand Manager roles, this position offers a greater emphasis on data analysis and strategic planning
  • Smithfield Foods' diverse brand portfolio provides opportunities to work on a wide range of products and categories
  • Career progression in this role may involve moving into a Brand Manager position or exploring other areas of Marketing within the organization

ASSUMPTION: This role offers unique opportunities for growth and development within the Marketing department and the broader organization.

πŸ“ Sample Projects

  • Conducting a market analysis to identify growth opportunities for a specific brand category
  • Developing and executing a comprehensive marketing plan to launch a new product line
  • Collaborating with cross-functional teams to optimize pricing strategies and improve brand profitability

ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the strategic and cross-functional nature of the Associate Brand Manager role at Smithfield Foods.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

  • Can you describe the team structure and dynamics within the Marketing department?
  • How does Smithfield Foods support the professional development and growth of its employees?
  • What are the most challenging aspects of this role, and how can I best prepare for them?
  • What opportunities exist for growth and advancement within the Marketing department and the broader organization?
  • How does Smithfield Foods foster a culture of innovation and continuous improvement?

ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful questions during the interview process demonstrates your interest in the role and commitment to success.

πŸ“Œ Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

  • Submit your application through this link
  • Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for this role
  • Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your problem-solving skills, teamwork, and adaptability
  • Research Smithfield Foods' products, brands, and competitors to demonstrate your industry knowledge and enthusiasm for the role
  • Follow up with the hiring manager one week after submitting your application to express your continued interest in the position

⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.