Senior Direct Marketing Specialist

📌 Core Information

🔹 Job Title: Senior Direct Marketing Specialist

🔹 Company: FirstRand Bank India

🔹 Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa

🔹 Job Type: Full-Time

🔹 Category: Banking & Finance

🔹 Date Posted: May 20, 2025

🔹 Experience Level: Mid-Senior level (5-10 years)

🔹 Remote Status: On-site

🚀 Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

• Designing and enhancing direct marketing activities to meet evolving business requirements
• Managing team performance and driving business objectives
• Collaborating across business areas and functional lines to enhance work delivery
• Delivering on an integrated BTL marketing and media strategy for profitable growth

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a balance of strategic thinking, hands-on execution, and team leadership. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in direct marketing and experience managing teams.

📋 Key Responsibilities

✅ Design and enhance multiple franchise or segment direct marketing activities and processes

✅ Translate marketing strategies and campaigns into actionable direct marketing initiatives

✅ Manage team performance and ensure achievement of business objectives

✅ Compile reports to track progress and guide business decisions

✅ Manage risks in own area of responsibility and provide thought leadership

✅ Implement and deliver on approved projects within budget from inception to close

✅ Build working relationships across teams and functional lines to enhance work delivery

✅ Create solutions to meet customer demands and deliver internal and external customer service excellence

✅ Identify opportunities for revenue growth and contain costs

ASSUMPTION: The role involves a mix of strategic planning, tactical execution, and team management. The successful candidate will be comfortable working in a dynamic environment and adapting to changing priorities.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: Relevant B Degree

Experience: 5 years' experience in a similar environment

Required Skills:

• Campaign Management
• Audience Segmentation
• Creative Development
• Budget Management
• Performance Analysis
• Cross-Channel Coordination
• Vendor Management
• Strong Innovation and Adaptation experience

Preferred Skills:

• Experience in the banking industry
• Fluency in additional languages

ASSUMPTION: While the role requires specific technical skills, the ideal candidate will also possess strong interpersonal skills, adaptability, and a customer-focused mindset.

💰 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: The salary range for this role is typically R600,000 - R800,000 per annum, depending on experience and qualifications. This estimate is based on industry standards for senior direct marketing roles in South Africa.

Benefits:

• Opportunities to network and collaborate
• Challenging work environment
• Opportunities to innovate

Working Hours: The role follows a standard banking work schedule, typically Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5:00 PM, with a 1-hour lunch break. However, flexibility may be required based on business needs.

ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate and may vary based on individual factors such as experience, qualifications, and market conditions.

📌 Applicant Insights

🔍 Company Context

Industry: FirstRand Bank India operates in the competitive banking sector in South Africa, with a focus on the Indo-African corridor and within India.

Company Size: FirstRand Bank India is a mid-sized company with 51-200 employees, providing a collaborative and innovative work environment.

Founded: FirstRand Bank India was founded in 2008 and is a fully-fledged branch of FirstRand Bank Limited South Africa.

Company Description:

• FirstRand Bank India offers banking services to clients active in the Indo-African corridor and within India
• The bank provides corporate banking, investment banking, fixed income, currency and commodity products, and structured products
• FirstRand Bank India is committed to supporting the recruitment and advancement of individuals with disabilities

Company Specialties:

• Corporate Banking
• Investment Banking
• Fixed Income Products
• Currency and Commodity Products
• Structured Products

Company Website: https://www.firstrand.co.in/SitePages/FirstRand%20India%20Home.aspx

ASSUMPTION: FirstRand Bank India is a well-established financial institution with a strong presence in the Indo-African corridor and within India. The company offers a range of banking services and is committed to supporting diversity and inclusion in the workplace.

📊 Role Analysis

Career Level: This role is at the mid-senior level, requiring a balance of strategic thinking and hands-on execution.

Reporting Structure: The Senior Direct Marketing Specialist will report directly to the Head of Marketing or a similar role.

Work Arrangement: The role is on-site, with the possibility of occasional remote work based on business needs.

Growth Opportunities:

• Progression to a Head of Marketing or similar leadership role
• Expansion of responsibilities based on business needs and performance
• Opportunities to work on cross-functional projects and gain exposure to different areas of the business

ASSUMPTION: The role offers opportunities for career growth and development within the marketing function and potentially beyond, depending on individual performance and business needs.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: The role is based in a corporate office environment in Sandton, Johannesburg.

Office Location(s): 5 Merchant Place, 9 Fredman Drive, Sandton, Johannesburg, 2196

Geographic Context:

• Johannesburg is the largest city in South Africa and the economic hub of the country
• The Sandton area is a major commercial and financial center, with many multinational corporations having their regional headquarters there
• The office is conveniently located near public transportation and amenities

Work Schedule: The role follows a standard banking work schedule, with some flexibility based on business needs and team requirements.

ASSUMPTION: The office environment is professional and dynamic, with opportunities for collaboration and networking with colleagues from various departments and functions.

💼 Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

• Online application and resume screening
• Phone or video screening interview
• In-person or video interview with the hiring manager and/or team members
• Final interview with senior leadership
• Background check and reference check (if applicable)

Key Assessment Areas:

• Direct marketing expertise and strategic thinking
• Team management and leadership skills
• Adaptability and problem-solving skills
• Customer focus and service excellence
• Communication and interpersonal skills

Application Tips:

• Tailor your resume to highlight relevant experience and skills for this role
• Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your experience managing teams, driving projects, and delivering results
• Research FirstRand Bank India and the banking industry to demonstrate your understanding of the business and market trends

ATS Keywords: Direct Marketing, Campaign Management, Audience Segmentation, Creative Development, Budget Management, Performance Analysis, Cross-Channel Coordination, Vendor Management, Innovation, Adaptation, Team Management, Customer Service Excellence, Revenue Growth, Cost Containment

ASSUMPTION: The application process may vary based on business needs and hiring manager preferences. It is essential to prepare thoroughly and tailor your application materials to the specific role and company.

🛠️ Tools & Technologies

• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• CRM software (e.g., Salesforce, Microsoft Dynamics)
• Marketing automation tools (e.g., Marketo, HubSpot)
• Data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI)

ASSUMPTION: The specific tools and technologies used may vary based on the team's preferences and business needs. Proficiency in relevant software and a willingness to learn new tools are essential.

👔 Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

• Curiosity and courage
• Obsession with mastery
• Collaboration and innovation

Work Style:

• Dynamic and fast-paced
• Results-driven and focused on delivery
• Collaborative and team-oriented

Self-Assessment Questions:

• Do you thrive in a dynamic and fast-paced environment?
• Are you driven by a desire to continuously learn and improve?
• Do you enjoy working collaboratively with others to achieve shared goals?

ASSUMPTION: FirstRand Bank India values curiosity, courage, and a commitment to continuous learning and improvement. Candidates who are a strong cultural fit will be adaptable, results-driven, and collaborative.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

• Managing multiple projects and priorities simultaneously
• Adapting to changing business needs and market conditions
• Working in a competitive and dynamic industry
• Balancing strategic thinking with hands-on execution

ASSUMPTION: The role presents both opportunities and challenges, requiring a balance of strategic thinking, tactical execution, and adaptability. The successful candidate will be comfortable working in a dynamic environment and able to manage multiple priorities effectively.

📈 Similar Roles Comparison

• Compared to other senior direct marketing roles, this position places a greater emphasis on team management and leadership
• The banking industry is competitive and dynamic, with a focus on driving profitable growth and customer service excellence
• Career progression in marketing may involve moving into leadership roles or expanding responsibilities based on business needs

ASSUMPTION: While the role shares similarities with other senior direct marketing positions, the focus on team management and leadership sets it apart. The banking industry presents unique challenges and opportunities, requiring a strong understanding of the market and a customer-focused mindset.

📝 Sample Projects

• Developing and executing a targeted direct marketing campaign to drive customer acquisition or retention
• Managing a team to deliver on an integrated BTL marketing and media strategy for a specific product or service
• Analyzing campaign performance data to identify trends, optimize results, and make data-driven recommendations

ASSUMPTION: The specific projects and initiatives undertaken will vary based on business needs and priorities. However, the role will involve a mix of strategic planning, tactical execution, and team management.

❓ 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 and organization?
• What opportunities are there for professional development and growth within the marketing function and beyond?
• How does the company support work-life balance for employees in this role?
• What are the most significant challenges facing the team or function currently, and how can this role contribute to addressing them?

ASSUMPTION: Asking thoughtful and insightful questions during the interview process demonstrates your interest in the role and commitment to understanding the company and its needs.

📌 Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

• Submit your application through this link
• Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
• Prepare a cover letter that explains your motivation for applying and how your background and skills make you a strong fit for the position
• If applicable, prepare examples or a portfolio showcasing your marketing campaigns, projects, or achievements
• Follow up with the hiring manager or HR representative within one week of submitting your application to confirm receipt and express your interest in the role

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