π Core Information
πΉ Job Title: Brand Manager
πΉ Company: Avacare Health Group
πΉ Location: Ormonde, Johannesburg
πΉ Job Type: On-site
πΉ Category: Pharmaceuticals
πΉ Date Posted: 2025-04-15
πΉ Experience Level: Mid-Senior level (2-5 years)
πΉ Remote Status: On-site
π Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Developing and implementing strategic brand marketing plans to achieve business objectives
- Supporting new product launches and managing budgets
- Ensuring compliance with industry standards and preparing performance reports
- Collaborating cross-functionally with sales, marketing, regulatory, medical, commercial teams, and external agencies
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strategic mindset, strong project management skills, and the ability to work effectively in a dynamic, high-pressure environment.
π Key Responsibilities
β
Develop and implement operational/tactical brand plans to support business strategy
β
Achieve product sales targets and evaluate campaign impact vs objectives
β
Promote cross-functional teamwork and ensure adherence to industry-specific codes of practice
β
Conduct market due diligence, identify business growth opportunities, and make motivations for new products
β
Manage new product launches, ensuring all prelaunch activities are initiated, driven, managed, and completed
β
Manage budgets, ensure compliance with regulations, and prepare monthly feedback reports
β
Conduct in-field work, ensuring rep co-working activities are conducted bi-monthly and post-work reports are submitted
ASSUMPTION: The Brand Manager is expected to be proactive, results-driven, and capable of multitasking and shifting priorities as required.
π― Required Qualifications
Education: Grade 12 and a Marketing Degree or equivalent
Experience: At least 4 years of experience in a similar role within the pharmaceutical industry
Required Skills:
- Brand plan creation and development
- New product launch processes, including projections and forecasting
- Budgeting and forecasting
- In-field working experience
- Excellent trade (KOL) relationships
- Medical congress and CME activity organization and management
Preferred Skills:
- Hospital and specialist focus processes and networking experience
- Medical aid, courier pharmacy process, and networking experience
- Software proficiency (MS Office, IMS(IQVIA), SSD, Order Dynamics Repwise, Qlikview, Medikredit, Pastel, SAGE), SEPA pricing applications
ASSUMPTION: Candidates with relevant experience in the pharmaceutical industry and strong communication skills, attention to detail, and accountability will be well-suited for this role.
π° Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: ZAR 70,000 - 100,000 per annum (Estimated, based on industry standards for mid-senior level roles in Johannesburg)
Benefits:
- Medical aid
- Courier pharmacy process
- Training and development opportunities
- Potential performance bonuses
Working Hours: Full-time, Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (with a 1-hour lunch break)
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for mid-senior level roles in Johannesburg. Actual compensation may vary based on the candidate's qualifications, skills, and experience.
π Applicant Insights
π Company Context
Industry: Avacare Health Group operates in the pharmaceutical manufacturing industry, focusing on essential medicines and healthcare products.
Company Size: Avacare Health Group has 501-1,000 employees, providing a mid-sized company environment with opportunities for growth and collaboration.
Founded: 1996, with over 26 years of experience in healthcare, Avacare Health Group has established a strong reputation and extensive market presence.
Company Description:
- Avacare Health Group is a multinational healthcare company operating in 20 countries across the globe
- They provide integrated, innovative, and holistic health solutions for various products and services
- The company is committed to making a sustainable difference in people's livelihoods through affordable, quality healthcare
Company Specialties:
- Medical Disposables
- Medical Consumables
- Medical Devices
- Pharmaceuticals
- ARVs
- Hospital Supplies
- Training
- Consumer Health
- Pharmaceuticals and Healthcare
Company Website: https://www.avacarehealth.com
ASSUMPTION: Avacare Health Group's extensive product portfolio, global presence, and commitment to affordable healthcare provide a stable and diverse work environment for employees.
π Role Analysis
Career Level: Mid-Senior level (2-5 years of experience)
Reporting Structure: The Brand Manager reports directly to the Marketing Manager or a similar role within the organization
Work Arrangement: On-site, full-time position with core hours from Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Growth Opportunities:
- Progression to senior marketing roles within the company
- Expanding responsibilities and team leadership opportunities
- Potential relocation or international assignments based on business needs
ASSUMPTION: The Brand Manager role offers growth opportunities within the company, allowing candidates to develop their skills and advance their careers.
π Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Avacare Health Group's headquarters is located in Johannesburg, with a modern, professional office environment
Office Location(s): 8, Skietlood Street, Isando, Johannesburg, Gauteng 1600, ZA
Geographic Context:
- Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa, with a vibrant business ecosystem and numerous cultural attractions
- The city offers a diverse range of neighborhoods, with Ormonde being a central, well-connected area
- Johannesburg has a subtropical highland climate, with mild winters and warm summers
Work Schedule: Full-time, Monday to Friday, 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM (with a 1-hour lunch break)
ASSUMPTION: The Brand Manager role is based in Johannesburg, offering candidates the opportunity to live and work in a dynamic, multicultural city with a rich history and diverse cultural experiences.
πΌ Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application submission through the Avacare Health Group careers portal
- Phone or video screening with the HR department
- Face-to-face or video interview with the hiring manager and/or team members
- Background check and reference verification
- Job offer and onboarding
Key Assessment Areas:
- Candidates' understanding of the pharmaceutical industry and relevant market trends
- Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Budgeting, forecasting, and analytical skills
- Cultural fit and alignment with Avacare Health Group's values and mission
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant experience, skills, and achievements related to the Brand Manager role
- Demonstrate your understanding of the pharmaceutical industry and Avacare Health Group's products and services
- Prepare examples of successful brand marketing campaigns or projects you've led in the past
- Showcase your ability to work effectively in a dynamic, high-pressure environment
- Follow up with the hiring manager or HR department one week after submitting your application to express your interest in the role
ATS Keywords: Brand Manager, Pharmaceuticals, Marketing Strategy, New Product Launch, Budgeting, Forecasting, In-Field Work, Medical Congress, CME Activity, Hospital Networking, Specialist Focus Processes, Software Proficiency, Customer Focus, Relationship Building
ASSUMPTION: Avacare Health Group's hiring process is designed to assess candidates' skills, experience, and cultural fit, with a focus on finding the best match for the Brand Manager role.
π οΈ Tools & Technologies
- MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- IMS (IQVIA)
- SSD
- Order Dynamics Repwise
- Qlikview
- Medikredit
- Pastel
- SAGE
- SEPA pricing applications
ASSUMPTION: The Brand Manager is expected to be proficient in using various software tools and technologies relevant to the pharmaceutical industry and marketing role.
π Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Customer-centric approach
- Integrity and ethical behavior
- Innovation and continuous improvement
- Collaboration and teamwork
- Accountability and results-driven mindset
- Diversity, equity, and inclusion
Work Style:
- Dynamic and fast-paced environment
- Cross-functional teamwork and collaboration
- Results-driven and performance-focused
- Adaptability and flexibility in the face of changing priorities and market demands
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Self-Assessment Questions:
- How do you align with Avacare Health Group's customer-centric approach, and can you provide an example of a time when you put customers first?
- How do you ensure ethical behavior and maintain integrity in your work, especially when faced with challenging situations?
- Can you describe a time when you demonstrated innovation and continuous improvement in a marketing role?
- How do you collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams, and can you share an example of a successful team project you've led or contributed to?
- How do you balance adaptability and flexibility with a results-driven mindset, and can you provide an example of a time when you demonstrated both qualities?
ASSUMPTION: Avacare Health Group values candidates who align with their core values and work style, demonstrating a strong cultural fit for the organization.
β οΈ Potential Challenges
- Managing multiple brands and product lines simultaneously
- Working in a fast-paced, high-pressure environment with tight deadlines
- Balancing strategic thinking with day-to-day tactical tasks
- Navigating a complex and dynamic market landscape
- Adapting to changes in regulations, market trends, and customer preferences
ASSUMPTION: The Brand Manager role presents unique challenges that require strong project management skills, adaptability, and a strategic mindset.
π Similar Roles Comparison
- Brand Manager vs. Product Manager: Brand Managers focus on developing and implementing marketing strategies, while Product Managers oversee the entire product lifecycle, from development to launch and post-launch support
- Pharmaceutical Industry vs. Consumer Goods Industry: The pharmaceutical industry has more stringent regulations and a longer product lifecycle, requiring a deeper understanding of the market and customers
- Brand Manager vs. Marketing Manager: Brand Managers specialize in brand-specific marketing strategies, while Marketing Managers oversee the overall marketing function and may manage multiple brands or product lines
ASSUMPTION: Understanding the differences between similar roles and industries is essential for candidates to make informed career decisions and tailor their applications accordingly.
π Sample Projects
- Developing and implementing a successful brand marketing campaign for a new product launch, resulting in increased market share and customer awareness
- Conducting market research and analysis to identify business growth opportunities and make data-driven recommendations for new product development
- Managing a team of marketing professionals to execute a large-scale medical congress or CME event, achieving high attendee satisfaction and generating valuable leads
ASSUMPTION: Providing relevant examples of past projects demonstrates candidates' skills, experience, and ability to succeed in the Brand Manager role.
β Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- Can you describe the company's long-term vision for the Brand Manager role and how it fits into the organization's overall growth strategy?
- How does the company support work-life balance for employees in this role?
- What are the most significant challenges facing the brand portfolio in the next 1-2 years, and how can this role address them?
- How does the company measure the success of the Brand Manager, and what key performance indicators (KPIs) are used to track progress?
- What opportunities are there for professional development and growth within the company for someone in this role?
ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful, insightful questions demonstrates candidates' interest in the role and helps them make informed decisions about their career.
π Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through the Avacare Health Group careers portal
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant experience, skills, and achievements related to the Brand Manager role
- Prepare examples of successful brand marketing campaigns or projects you've led in the past
- Showcase your ability to work effectively in a dynamic, high-pressure environment
- Follow up with the hiring manager or HR department one week after submitting your application to express your interest in the role
β οΈ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.