📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Senior HOS Brand Manager
🔹 Company: Suntory Global Spirits
🔹 Location: Shanghai, Shanghai, China
🔹 Job Type: On-site
🔹 Category: Beverage Manufacturing
🔹 Date Posted: July 15, 2025
🔹 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 influence and inspire 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 the business dimensioning aligns with demand in China and reflects global priorities.
✅ Deliver on key performance metrics such as net sales, gross profit, and brand health, adjusting 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 to build brand equity in line with the brands’ DNA, and ensure the development of activation guidelines for different channels.
✅ Champion the development and execution of channel strategies, building strong collaboration with Global House of Suntory Brand House and Global Prestige teams, and influencing resource allocation to support business and brand growth in China.
✅ Assist the leadership team in development of the route-to-consumer in Off- and On-trade, as well as route-to-prestige-consumer via private sales and D2C.
✅ Foster superior relationships with key stakeholders, both internal (Commercial, Finance, Legal, etc.) and external (distributors and agencies) throughout their organizations.
✅ Proactively support the growth and development of direct and cross-functional team members, with special focus on collaboration with Brand Advocacy, Digital, VIP sales, and MDC (Market commercialization and Deployment) teams.
ASSUMPTION: This role requires strong leadership, strategic thinking, and the ability to manage complex sets of stakeholders.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Not specified
Experience: 6-9 years of consumer marketing experience, particularly in Luxury/Lifestyle segments
Required Skills:
- Deep understanding of Luxury consumer in China
- Strategic thinker with 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, as well as to engage diverse internal and external stakeholders
- Collaborative leadership style, excellent listening skills, and cultural sensitivity; proven ability to build credibility and excel in an international and cross-functional environment
Preferred Skills:
- Experience in managing brands within Luxury/Lifestyle segments
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should have a strong foundation in brand marketing and be comfortable working in a dynamic, international environment.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: Based on industry standards for a Senior Brand Manager role in the Beverage Manufacturing industry in Shanghai, the estimated salary range is ¥450,000 - ¥650,000 per year. This is inclusive of a base salary, bonus, and other potential compensation components.
Benefits:
- Health, dental, and vision insurance
- Retirement savings plan with company match
- Generous vacation and time-off policies
- Employee assistance programs
- Professional development opportunities
Working Hours: Full-time (40 hours per week), with flexibility for remote work as needed
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate and may vary based on the candidate's experience, qualifications, and the company's internal compensation structure.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Beverage Manufacturing, with a focus on premium spirits and a strong presence in the luxury segment
Company Size: 5,001-10,000 employees, providing ample opportunities for career growth and development
Founded: Not specified, with a rich history and established brand portfolio
Company Description:
- As a world leader in premium spirits, Suntory Global Spirits inspires the brilliance of life by creating rich experiences for people, in harmony with nature
- 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
- Luxury brand management and marketing
- Global operations and supply chain management
- Sustainability and corporate social responsibility initiatives
Company Website: http://www.suntoryglobalspirits.com
ASSUMPTION: Suntory Global Spirits is a well-established company with a strong global presence and a commitment to sustainability and social responsibility.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: Senior, with significant responsibility for driving brand growth and strategy
Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the China Marketing Director and works closely with the Global Brand Team, as well as cross-functional teams within SGS
Work Arrangement: On-site, with potential for remote work as needed
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential advancement to a regional or global marketing leadership role
- Expansion of responsibilities to include additional brands or market segments
- Opportunities to develop skills in areas such as digital marketing, data analysis, or cross-functional team leadership
ASSUMPTION: This role offers significant growth potential for the right candidate, with opportunities to develop both marketing and leadership skills.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Modern, collaborative office space with a focus on employee well-being and productivity
Office Location(s): Shanghai, with potential for travel to other Greater China locations as needed
Geographic Context:
- Shanghai is a major commercial and financial hub, with a vibrant cultural scene and ample opportunities for personal and professional growth
- The Greater China market is a priority for Suntory Global Spirits, with significant potential for brand growth and expansion
- The region is home to a diverse consumer base, with a strong appreciation for luxury and premium products
Work Schedule: Standard business hours, with flexibility for remote work as needed
ASSUMPTION: The Shanghai office provides a dynamic and engaging work environment, with ample opportunities for collaboration and professional development.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application submission
- Phone or video screening
- In-person or virtual interviews with the hiring manager and relevant stakeholders
- Final interviews with senior leadership
- Background check and offer extension
Key Assessment Areas:
- Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills
- Brand marketing expertise and luxury consumer understanding
- Communication and influencing skills
- Leadership style and cultural sensitivity
- Alignment with Suntory Global Spirits' core values and company culture
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant experience and skills for this role
- Demonstrate your understanding of the luxury consumer in China and your ability to develop and implement effective brand strategies
- Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your leadership style, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities
- Research Suntory Global Spirits' brand portfolio and be prepared to discuss your ideas for driving brand growth and expansion
ATS Keywords: Brand Marketing, Luxury Consumer, Strategic Thinking, Data Analysis, Commercial Acumen, Financial Acumen, Communication Skills, Influencing Skills, Collaborative Leadership, Cultural Sensitivity, Stakeholder Management, Team Development, Channel Strategy, Brand Equity Development, Market Strategy, Consumer Insights
ASSUMPTION: The interview process for this role will focus on assessing the candidate's strategic thinking, brand marketing expertise, and leadership potential.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Google Workspace (Gmail, Google Docs, Sheets, Slides)
- CRM and marketing automation platforms (e.g., Salesforce, Marketo)
- Data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI)
- Social media management platforms (e.g., Hootsuite, Sprout Social)
ASSUMPTION: Proficiency in relevant marketing and data analysis tools is essential for success in this role.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Growing for Good: Balancing business growth with positive impact on society and the environment
- Yatte Minahare: Be proactive and take initiative in driving results and continuous improvement
- Giving Back to Society: Contributing to communities and society through corporate social responsibility initiatives
Work Style:
- Collaborative and inclusive, with a focus on teamwork and cross-functional collaboration
- Results-driven, with a strong focus on performance metrics and continuous improvement
- Adaptable and flexible, with a willingness to learn and grow in a dynamic environment
Self-Assessment Questions:
- How do you align with Suntory Global Spirits' core values, particularly 'Growing for Good' and 'Giving Back to Society'?
- How do you approach building and maintaining strong relationships with diverse stakeholders, both internal and external?
- How do you balance commercial and financial acumen with aspirational leadership of the brand marketing agenda?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be able to demonstrate a strong cultural fit with Suntory Global Spirits' core values and work style.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Managing a complex set of stakeholders, both internal and external, with diverse priorities and expectations
- Operating in a dynamic and competitive luxury market, with a need for continuous innovation and adaptation
- Balancing short-term performance metrics with long-term brand building and growth strategies
- Navigating a large and complex organization, with opportunities for career growth and development, but also potential challenges in communication and collaboration
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be comfortable working in a dynamic, high-pressure environment and be able to balance multiple priorities and stakeholders.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- Compared to other senior brand manager roles, this position offers a unique opportunity to drive brand growth and strategy in the luxury segment of the beverage manufacturing industry
- Unlike other roles, this position requires a deep understanding of the luxury consumer in China and the ability to develop and implement effective brand strategies in a dynamic market
- Career path comparison: This role offers significant growth potential, with opportunities to advance to regional or global marketing leadership positions
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be aware of the unique challenges and opportunities presented by this role and be prepared to leverage their skills and experience to drive brand growth and success.
📝 Sample Projects
- Developing and implementing a successful channel strategy for the House of Suntory portfolio in Greater China
- Launching a new luxury brand or product line in the Greater China market, with a focus on building brand equity and driving consumer adoption
- Conducting market research and consumer segmentation analysis to inform brand strategy and positioning
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be able to provide specific examples of their experience and achievements in brand marketing, with a focus on driving brand growth and success in the luxury segment.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- How does the company support the growth and development of its brand managers?
- What are the key priorities for the brand portfolio in the first 90 days, and how can I contribute to driving success in these areas?
- How does the company measure and track brand performance, and what are the key metrics for success in this role?
- What are the most significant challenges facing the brand portfolio in the Greater China market, and how can I help address these issues?
- How does the company foster a culture of collaboration and innovation, and what opportunities are there for me to contribute to these areas?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be prepared to ask thoughtful and insightful questions that demonstrate their understanding of the role and their commitment to driving brand success.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through this link
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills for this role
- Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your leadership style, communication skills, and problem-solving abilities
- Research Suntory Global Spirits' brand portfolio and be prepared to discuss your ideas for driving brand growth and expansion
- Follow up with the hiring manager one week after submitting your application to express your continued interest in the role
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
