📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Senior Brand Manager
🔹 Company: Suntory Global Spirits
🔹 Location: Shanghai, Shanghai, China
🔹 Job Type: On-site
🔹 Category: Beverage Manufacturing
🔹 Date Posted: 2025-07-15
🔹 Experience Level: 5-10 years
🔹 Remote Status: On-site
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Leading the development and expansion of the House of Suntory portfolio in Greater China
- Formulating effective strategies to drive brand power of Hibiki, Kakubin, and Yamazaki brands
- Building a robust value-accretive growth model and successful channel strategies
- Actively supporting the leadership team in growing Prestige capability within the SGS China team
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strategic mindset, strong commercial acumen, and the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Lead the development and implementation of the 3-year and annual brand plan for China, aligned with global ambitions and in strong collaboration with the Global Brand Team and the China Marketing Director.
✅ Lead portfolio strategy development and deployment, ensuring business dimensioning aligns with demand in China and reflects global priorities.
✅ Deliver on key performance metrics, including net sales, gross profit, and brand health, and adjust brand strategies and activation plans in response to volatile environments.
✅ Own the brand investment strategy, ensuring planning, management, and close monitoring of annual brand investment as per budget, and continuously improving marketing spend effectiveness and efficiency towards brand objectives.
✅ Develop and implement local communication and creative strategy for Kakubin, lead adaptation and implementation for Hibiki and Yamazaki, and build brand equity in line with the brands' DNA.
✅ Champion the development and execution of channel strategies and foster strong collaboration with Global House of Suntory Brand House and Global Prestige teams.
✅ Build superior relationships with key stakeholders, both internal and external, throughout their organizations.
✅ Proactively support the growth and development of direct and cross-functional team members, with a focus on collaboration with Brand Advocacy, Digital, VIP sales, and MDC teams.
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a high level of strategic thinking, stakeholder management, and team leadership skills.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business, or a related field. An MBA would be an asset.
Experience: 6-9 years of consumer marketing experience, with a focus on Luxury/Lifestyle segments.
Required Skills:
- Deep understanding of Luxury consumer in China
- Strategic thinking and the ability to turn data into insights and actionable business strategies
- Strong commercial and financial acumen
- Strong communication skills, with the ability to influence and inspire diverse internal and external stakeholders
- Collaborative leadership style, excellent listening skills, and cultural sensitivity
Preferred Skills:
- Experience working in a global organization
- Fluency in Mandarin Chinese
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should have a strong foundation in brand marketing and a proven track record of driving brand growth in the Luxury/Lifestyle segments.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: Based on industry standards for a Senior Brand Manager role in Greater China, the estimated salary range is CNY 600,000 - 900,000 per year. This estimate takes into account the level of responsibility, required experience, and market conditions.
Benefits:
- Competitive benefits package, including health insurance and retirement plans
- Opportunities for professional development and growth
- Dynamic and inclusive work environment
Working Hours: Full-time position, with standard working hours from Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM. Overtime may be required as needed.
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate and may vary based on the candidate's qualifications and experience.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Beverage Manufacturing. Suntory Global Spirits is a world leader in premium spirits, with a strong presence in Greater China.
Company Size: Medium to large-sized company with approximately 6,000 employees in nearly 30 countries. In Greater China, Suntory Global Spirits has around 5,000 employees.
Founded: Suntory Global Spirits was founded in 2014, following the acquisition of Beam Inc. by Suntory Holdings Limited of Japan.
Company Description:
- Suntory Global Spirits inspires the brilliance of life by creating rich experiences for people, in harmony with nature.
- The company is known for its craftsmanship of premium whiskies, including Jim Beam® and Maker's Mark®; Japanese whiskies, including Yamazaki®, Hakushu®, Hibiki® and Toki™; and leading Scotch brands including Laphroaig® and Bowmore®.
- Suntory Global Spirits also produces leading brands such as Tres Generaciones® and El Tesoro® tequila, Roku™ and Sipsmith® gin, and is a world leader in Ready-To-Drink cocktails, with brands like -196 and On The Rocks™ Premium Cocktails.
Company Specialties:
- Premium spirits production and distribution
- Global brand management and marketing
- Sustainability and corporate social responsibility initiatives
Company Website: http://www.suntoryglobalspirits.com
ASSUMPTION: Suntory Global Spirits is a dynamic and growing company with a strong commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: Senior Managerial level, with potential for career growth within the organization.
Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the China Marketing Director and works closely with the Global Brand House and Global Prestige teams.
Work Arrangement: On-site, with occasional travel required for meetings and events.
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential for career progression within the marketing function or into other areas of the business
- Opportunities to work on high-profile global brands and campaigns
- possibility to gain experience in a multinational corporation and work with diverse teams
ASSUMPTION: This role offers significant growth potential for the right candidate, with opportunities to work on high-profile brands and gain valuable experience in a global organization.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Modern, well-equipped office space with a collaborative and inclusive work environment.
Office Location(s): Shanghai, China
Geographic Context:
- Shanghai is the largest city in China and a major economic hub, with a vibrant cultural scene and diverse culinary offerings
- The city is well-connected by public transportation and has a growing number of international schools
- Shanghai has a humid subtropical climate, with mild winters and hot, humid summers
Work Schedule: Standard working hours from Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with overtime as needed.
ASSUMPTION: Shanghai offers a dynamic and multicultural work environment, with a wide range of amenities and entertainment options.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application review
- Phone or video screening
- On-site or virtual interview with the hiring manager and relevant team members
- Final round interview with senior leadership
- Background check and offer extension
Key Assessment Areas:
- Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills
- Communication and presentation skills
- Cultural awareness and adaptability
- Leadership potential and team management skills
- Industry-specific knowledge and brand management expertise
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
- Prepare for behavioral interview questions, focusing on your problem-solving skills and leadership experiences
- Research the company and industry trends to demonstrate your enthusiasm and understanding of the role
- Prepare questions to ask the interviewer about the company culture, team dynamics, and growth opportunities
ATS Keywords: Brand Marketing, Luxury Consumer, Strategic Thinking, Commercial Acumen, Financial Acumen, Communication Skills, Collaborative Leadership, Stakeholder Engagement, Beverage Manufacturing, Global Brand Management
ASSUMPTION: The interview process for this role will focus on assessing the candidate's strategic thinking, leadership potential, and cultural fit within the organization.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- CRM and marketing automation platforms (e.g., Salesforce, Marketo)
- Social media management tools (e.g., Hootsuite, Buffer)
- Data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI)
- Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello)
ASSUMPTION: Proficiency in relevant marketing and project management tools is essential for this role, as well as strong data analysis skills.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Growing for Good: Balancing business growth with sustainable practices and positive social impact
- Yatte Minahare: Taking action and being proactive in driving results
- Giving Back to Society: Contributing to communities and society through corporate social responsibility initiatives
Work Style:
- Collaborative and inclusive work environment, with a focus on teamwork and cross-functional collaboration
- Dynamic and fast-paced, with a focus on driving results and continuous improvement
- Open and transparent communication, with a strong emphasis on feedback and development
Self-Assessment Questions:
- Do you align with Suntory Global Spirits' core values, and how have you demonstrated these values in your previous roles?
- How do you approach working with diverse teams and stakeholders, and what examples can you provide from your past experiences?
- How do you balance commercial and financial acumen with a strong focus on brand marketing and consumer insights?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be able to demonstrate a strong cultural fit with Suntory Global Spirits' values and work style, as well as a proven track record of driving brand growth and managing diverse teams.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Managing a large portfolio of premium brands with varying market conditions and consumer preferences
- Navigating a complex and evolving regulatory environment for the beverage industry in China
- Balancing global brand strategies with local market demands and cultural nuances
- Managing a diverse and cross-functional team, with varying levels of experience and expertise
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be prepared to face these challenges and have a proven track record of driving brand growth and managing diverse teams in dynamic and complex environments.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- This role is similar to a Senior Brand Manager role in a global beverage company, with a focus on the Luxury/Lifestyle segments
- However, this role has a greater emphasis on strategic thinking, stakeholder management, and team leadership
- Career progression in this role may lead to global brand management or general management positions within the organization
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should have a strong understanding of the beverage industry and relevant brand management experience, as well as a strategic mindset and leadership potential.
📝 Sample Projects
- Developing and implementing a successful brand relaunch campaign for a premium spirit brand in the Greater China market
- Conducting a comprehensive market analysis and consumer segmentation study to inform brand strategy and positioning
- Managing a cross-functional team to execute a high-profile global brand event, with a focus on local market adaptation and engagement
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be able to provide specific examples of their experience in brand management, strategic planning, and team leadership, with a focus on driving brand growth and market share.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- What are the key priorities for this role in the first 90 days?
- How does this role fit into the broader marketing strategy for Suntory Global Spirits in Greater China?
- What are the most significant challenges facing the brand portfolio in the Greater China market, and how can this role address them?
- How does Suntory Global Spirits support the growth and development of its employees, particularly in senior marketing roles?
- What are the key performance indicators (KPIs) for this role, and how will success be measured?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should ask thoughtful and insightful questions to demonstrate their interest in the role and understanding of the business.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through http://www.suntoryglobalspirits.com/careers
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
- Prepare for behavioral interview questions, focusing on your problem-solving skills and leadership experiences
- Research the company and industry trends to demonstrate your enthusiasm and understanding of the role
- Prepare questions to ask the interviewer about the company culture, team dynamics, and growth opportunities
- Follow up with the hiring manager within one week after the interview to express your appreciation and reiterate your interest in the role
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
