Associate Manager Marketing - Product Marketing

📌 Core Information

🔹 Job Title: Associate Manager Marketing - Product Marketing

🔹 Company: Mattel

🔹 Location: El Segundo, California, United States

🔹 Job Type: Full-time

🔹 Category: Marketing

🔹 Date Posted: May 8, 2025

🔹 Experience Level: 2-5 years

🔹 Remote Status: Hybrid (on-site and remote work)

🚀 Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

• Developing and executing global product marketing strategies for Mattel's Vehicles, Dolls, and Action Figures categories.
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to manage product portfolios, focusing on mix management and ensuring alignment at key milestones.
• Acting as the point of contact for brand inquiries and disseminating brand information.
• Presenting to large groups and driving brand strategy and products.
• Analyzing trends, brands, and competitors' performance in global markets.

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong understanding of marketing mix, KPIs, and data analysis to drive product success on a global scale.

📋 Key Responsibilities

✅ Manage product portfolio, develop business strategies, and manage P&L in collaboration with the Marketing Manager.

✅ Work closely with cross-functional partners (Design, Packaging, Product Development, etc.) to develop the product line, focusing on proper mix management techniques throughout the portfolio, and ensuring alignment at all key milestones.

✅ Own the day-to-day management of the product segment and act as the point of contact for brand inquiries and dissemination of brand information.

✅ Assist in gaining buy-in to global product strategies at all levels and executional commitment from internal partners to activate across key markets and key lines of business.

✅ Work closely with the Product Design, Packaging, and Development teams to bring innovative and compelling toys to market on time and on budget, backed by consumer insights.

✅ Communicate regularly with regional teams and lines of business to ensure needs are being met.

✅ Present regularly with confidence in front of large groups to drive brand strategy and products.

✅ Monitor key trends, brands, and competitors' performance in all markets.

✅ Lead global business reporting and analysis.

✅ Work alongside the brand marketing team to contribute to the planning and execution of global brand building activities, development of global marketing tools, and development of content with internal and external groups, all through a product-focused lens.

✅ Work with other Mattel Global Brand teams to share plans and 'best practices' around the world.

ASSUMPTION: This role requires strong presentation, communication, and interpersonal skills to effectively collaborate with various teams and stakeholders.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business, or a related field (MBA preferred but not required)

Experience: 2+ years of relevant work experience with an MBA or 5+ years without an MBA

Required Skills:

• Thorough understanding of marketing mix and KPIs
• Experience analyzing data and managing financials
• Ability to synthesize data and pull insights to create recommendations
• Strong skills presenting in front of large groups and a senior-level audience
• Highly organized, independent, and detail-oriented with strong follow-up skills
• Strong time management, planning, and project execution skills
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build solid collaborative relationships
• Strong PowerPoint creation and presentation skills, proficiency in Outlook, Word, and Excel
• Demonstrated a growth mindset by staying curious and continuously learning, embracing challenges, and improving themselves.

Preferred Skills:

• Experience with company/product/marketing that is rooted in consumer trends
• Innovative thinker - can think outside the box
• Passionate about making a difference and cares about the global impact of their work

ASSUMPTION: Candidates with experience in the toy industry or consumer goods may have an advantage in understanding the market and competition.

💰 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The annual base salary range for this position is between $110k and $125k. This range is indicative of projected hiring range, however annual base salary will be determined based on a candidate’s work location, skills, and experience.

Benefits:

• Competitive benefits package (details not specified)

Working Hours: Full-time position with a hybrid work arrangement (on-site and remote work)

ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate and may vary based on the candidate's location, skills, and experience. The benefits package may include health insurance, retirement plans, and other perks common to the industry.

📌 Applicant Insights

🔍 Company Context

Industry: Mattel is a leading global toy company and owner of one of the strongest catalogs of children's and family entertainment franchises in the world. They create innovative products and experiences that inspire, entertain, and develop children through play.

Company Size: Mattel has 10,001+ employees, making it a large organization with significant resources and opportunities for growth.

Founded: Mattel was founded in 1945 and has since become a well-established and iconic brand in the toy industry.

Company Description:

• Mattel treats play as if the future depends on it because it does. Play is their language, and they speak to their consumers authentically by representing the world as they see and imagine it.
• Mattel engages consumers through their portfolio of iconic brands, including Barbie, Hot Wheels, Fisher-Price, American Girl, Thomas & Friends, UNO, Masters of the Universe, Monster High, and MEGA, as well as other popular intellectual properties that they own or license in partnership with global entertainment companies.
• Mattel is recognized as a Great Place to Work™ and as one of Fast Company’s Best Workplaces for Innovators.

Company Specialties:

• Toys and Entertainment

Company Website: https://about.mattel.com/

ASSUMPTION: Working at Mattel offers the opportunity to be part of a large, well-established company with a strong brand portfolio and a focus on innovation and play.

📊 Role Analysis

Career Level: This role is at the manager level, with the opportunity to grow and take on more responsibilities as the Associate Manager gains experience.

Reporting Structure: The Associate Manager will report directly to the Manager, Global Product Marketing and work closely with various cross-functional teams.

Work Arrangement: This role has a hybrid work arrangement, with a combination of on-site and remote work.

Growth Opportunities:

• As the Associate Manager gains experience and demonstrates strong performance, there may be opportunities to take on more responsibilities or move into a Manager role.
• Mattel offers a large organization with various departments and brands, providing opportunities for career growth and exploration.

ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique opportunity to work on global product marketing strategies for some of Mattel's most iconic brands, with the potential for growth and development within the organization.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: Mattel's headquarters is a corporate office environment, with a mix of open and private workspaces.

Office Location(s): 333 Continental Blvd, El Segundo, California 90245, US

Geographic Context:

• El Segundo is a city in Los Angeles County, California, with a population of approximately 16,000 people.
• The area has a Mediterranean climate, with mild, wet winters and warm, dry summers.
• El Segundo is located near the coast, with beaches and outdoor activities within easy reach.

Work Schedule: The hybrid work arrangement allows for a combination of on-site and remote work, with the specific schedule to be determined by the employee and their manager.

ASSUMPTION: Working at Mattel's headquarters in El Segundo offers a dynamic and collaborative work environment, with the opportunity to work with talented professionals from around the world.

💼 Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

• Online application submission
• Phone or video screen with the HR team
• In-depth interview with the hiring manager and/or team members
• Final interview with the director or vice president
• Background check and offer

Key Assessment Areas:

• Cultural fit and alignment with Mattel's values
• Marketing and product development skills
• Data analysis and presentation skills
• Collaboration and communication skills

Application Tips:

• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role.
• Be prepared to discuss your experience with marketing mix, KPIs, and data analysis in detail.
• Demonstrate your ability to think strategically and creatively about product marketing.

ATS Keywords: Marketing Strategy, Product Development, Business Strategy, Data Analysis, Financial Management, Presentation Skills, Collaboration, Project Management, Consumer Insights, Marketing Mix, KPIs

ASSUMPTION: The application process for this role may take several weeks, with multiple interviews and assessments to ensure the best fit for both the candidate and the company.

🛠️ Tools & Technologies

• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Google Analytics)
• Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello)
• Presentation software (e.g., PowerPoint, Keynote)

ASSUMPTION: The tools and technologies required for this role are common to the marketing and product development industries and can be learned or improved upon with experience.

👔 Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

• Collaboration: Being a part of Mattel means being part of one team with shared values and common goals. Every person counts, and working closely together always brings better results. Partnership is our process, and our collective capabilities is our superpower.
• Innovation: At Mattel, they always aim to find new and better ways to create innovative products and experiences. No matter where you work in the organization, you can always make a difference and have real impact. They welcome new ideas and value new initiatives that challenge conventional thinking.
• Execution: Mattel is a performance-driven company. They strive for excellence and are focused on pursuing best-in-class outcomes. They believe in accountability and ownership and know that their people are at their best when they are empowered to create and deliver results.

Work Style:

• Mattel embraces a flexible work model designed to empower a culture of growth, optimism, and wellbeing, where every employee can reach their full potential. Combining purposeful in-person collaboration with flexibility, their focus is to optimize performance and drive connection for moments that matter.
• Mattel values diversity, inclusion, and belonging, and encourages employees to bring their authentic selves to work every day.

Self-Assessment Questions:

• Do I align with Mattel's values of collaboration, innovation, and execution?
• Am I comfortable working in a hybrid work environment, balancing on-site and remote work?
• Do I have the necessary skills and experience to succeed in a global product marketing role?

ASSUMPTION: Mattel values a diverse and inclusive workforce, and candidates who can demonstrate their alignment with the company's values and work style will be strong contenders for the role.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

• The role requires a strong understanding of global marketing trends and consumer insights, which may require additional research and learning.
• Working in a large, matrixed organization may present challenges in terms of communication and collaboration across various teams and stakeholders.
• The hybrid work arrangement may require additional self-motivation and time management skills to balance on-site and remote work effectively.
• The role may involve frequent travel to attend global meetings and events.

ASSUMPTION: These challenges can be overcome with strong communication, collaboration, and time management skills, as well as a willingness to adapt and learn in a dynamic work environment.

📈 Similar Roles Comparison

• Compared to other marketing roles, this position places a stronger emphasis on product development and global strategy, with a focus on driving business results through innovative product marketing.
• In the toy industry, Mattel is a well-established and iconic brand, offering unique opportunities for career growth and development within the organization.
• Career paths in product marketing may lead to roles in brand management, marketing strategy, or general management, depending on the individual's skills and interests.

ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique opportunity to work on global product marketing strategies for some of Mattel's most iconic brands, with the potential for growth and development within the organization.

📝 Sample Projects

• Developing a global product marketing strategy for a new line of Hot Wheels vehicles, targeting boys aged 6-12.
• Analyzing consumer trends and market data to inform the product portfolio for the Barbie brand, ensuring relevance and appeal to a diverse global audience.
• Collaborating with cross-functional teams to launch a new line of Fisher-Price infant and toddler products, focusing on safety, innovation, and consumer insights.

ASSUMPTION: These sample projects demonstrate the range of responsibilities and collaborative nature of the Associate Manager, Global Product Marketing role at Mattel.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

• Can you describe the team structure and dynamics for this role, and how it collaborates with other departments?
• How does Mattel support the growth and development of its employees, particularly in this role?
• What are the key priorities for this role in the first 30, 60, and 90 days?
• How does Mattel approach innovation and staying ahead of trends in the toy industry?
• What is the work-life balance like for this role, and how does Mattel support employees in maintaining a healthy work-life balance?

ASSUMPTION: Asking these questions will help you better understand the role, the team, and the company culture, ensuring a strong fit for both you and the organization.

📌 Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

• Submit your application through this link: https://jobs.smartrecruiters.com/MattelInc/74400005843457-associate-manager-marketing-product-marketing
• Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role, emphasizing your marketing strategy, product development, and data analysis expertise.
• Prepare for your interviews by researching Mattel's brands, products, and industry trends, and be ready to discuss your ideas for driving global product marketing success.
• Follow up with the hiring manager or HR team one week after your final interview to express your continued interest in the role and ask about the next steps in the process.

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