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Senior Innovation Brand Manager, APAC

Diageo
Full-time
On-site
Shanghai, Shanghai, China
🎨 Brand & Creative Marketing
πŸ“Œ Core Information

- Job Title: Senior Innovation Brand Manager, APAC
- Company: Diageo
- Location: Shanghai, China
- Job Type: Full-Time
- Category: Beverage Manufacturing
- Date Posted: July 14, 2025
- Experience Level: Mid-Senior level (5-10 years)
- Remote Status: On-site

πŸš€ Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

- Leading regional innovation projects aligned with global brand strategy and regional growth strategy.
- Influencing cross-functional teams and stakeholders to deliver projects on time and within budget.
- Developing distinctive product and marketing offers based on cultural and local insights.
- Managing project timelines and budgets using Diageo's Innovation Accelerate 360 and Navigate processes.

ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong project management background and the ability to navigate complex stakeholder networks. Success will depend on the candidate's ability to balance strategic thinking with hands-on project execution.

πŸ“‹ Key Responsibilities

- 🌟 Lead and deliver regional innovation projects from ideation to commercialization, ensuring alignment with global brand strategy and regional growth strategy.
- 🌟 Influence cross-functional project teams consisting of global brand teams, marketing, commercial, customer marketing, supply, R&D, technical, legal, and financial stakeholders, as well as local executives and agencies.
- 🌟 Create highly distinctive product and marketing offers based on cultural and local insights, with a consumer-centric mindset.
- 🌟 Manage project timelines and budgets using Diageo's Innovation Accelerate 360 and Navigate processes, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget.
- 🌟 Collaborate with global brand teams to ensure regional projects align with global brand strategies and contribute to global pipeline projects.

ASSUMPTION: This role involves a high degree of cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management. Successful candidates will have strong influencing skills and the ability to navigate complex stakeholder networks.

🎯 Required Qualifications

- Education: Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business, or a related field. A relevant postgraduate degree would be an asset.
- Experience: 5-10 years of experience in brand management, marketing, or a related role, with a proven track record in project management and consumer-driven strategy development.
- Required Skills:
- Proven project management skills, with experience managing multiple projects simultaneously.
- Strong strategic thinking and the ability to translate strategy into actionable plans.
- Excellent communication and influencing skills, with the ability to build and sustain relationships with stakeholders at all levels.
- Strong leadership skills, with the ability to inspire and motivate cross-functional teams.
- Proven ability to leverage consumer, shopper, and customer insights to drive strategy and innovation.
- Fluency in English; proficiency in Mandarin would be an asset.
- Preferred Skills:
- Experience working in the beverage or FMCG industry.
- Knowledge of Diageo's brand portfolio and global brand strategies.
- Experience working in a matrix organization.
- Familiarity with Diageo's Innovation Accelerate 360 and Navigate processes.

ASSUMPTION: Given the strategic nature of this role, candidates should have a strong track record in project management and consumer-driven strategy development. Relevant industry experience would be highly desirable.

πŸ’° Compensation & Benefits

- Salary Range: Based on industry standards for a mid-senior level role in Shanghai, the estimated salary range for this position is Β₯450,000 - Β₯650,000 per year (gross). This range is inclusive of base salary and variable compensation.
- Benefits: Diageo offers a competitive benefits package, including health insurance, retirement plans, and employee discounts on Diageo products.
- Working Hours: This role is based in Shanghai and follows a standard 40-hour workweek, with flexibility for remote work as needed.

ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on market research and may vary depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications. The benefits package is subject to change and may vary based on the candidate's location and employment status.

πŸ“Œ Applicant Insights

πŸ” Company Context

- Industry: Diageo is a global leader in the premium drinks industry, with a portfolio of over 200 brands sold in 180 countries.
- Company Size: Diageo is a large, multinational corporation with over 30,000 employees based in over 135 countries.
- Founded: Diageo was founded in 1997 through the merger of Guinness and Grand Metropolitan.
- Company Description: Diageo is a global leader in premium drinks, with a portfolio that includes iconic brands such as Johnnie Walker, Singleton, Mortlach, Don Julio, Smirnoff, Baileys, Captain Morgan, and Guinness. The company's mission is to celebrate life, every day, everywhere, and it aims to maintain its position as a leader in the alcoholic beverage market by investing in the future and being mindful of its impact on people and the planet.
- Company Specialties: Diageo specializes in premium drinks, marketing, innovation, supply chain, HR, sales, brand management, and e-commerce.

πŸ“Š Role Analysis

- Career Level: This role is at the mid-senior level, with opportunities for growth and progression within Diageo's global organization.
- Reporting Structure: The Senior Innovation Brand Manager, APAC, will report directly to the APAC Innovation Director and work closely with global brand teams, regional marketing teams, and cross-functional stakeholders.
- Work Arrangement: This role is based in Shanghai, China, with the expectation of working on-site. However, Diageo offers flexibility for remote work as needed.
- Growth Opportunities:
- Opportunities to work on global pipeline projects and contribute to Diageo's global brand strategies.
- Potential to progress to a more senior role within Diageo's global organization.
- Exposure to a wide range of Diageo's brands and categories, providing opportunities to develop a broad understanding of the company's portfolio.

ASSUMPTION: This role offers significant opportunities for career growth and development within Diageo's global organization. Successful candidates will have the opportunity to work on high-impact projects and contribute to Diageo's global brand strategies.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

- Office Type: Diageo's Shanghai office is a modern, collaborative workspace with a focus on employee well-being and engagement.
- Office Location(s): Diageo's Shanghai office is located in the Pudong New Area, one of Shanghai's most dynamic and rapidly developing districts.
- Geographic Context: Shanghai is a major global city and a significant hub for the beverage industry in the Asia-Pacific region. The city is known for its vibrant culture, rich history, and diverse food scene.
- Work Schedule: The standard work schedule is Monday to Friday, 9:00 AM to 6:00 PM, with flexibility for remote work as needed.

ASSUMPTION: Diageo's Shanghai office provides a modern, collaborative work environment that reflects the company's commitment to employee well-being and engagement. The office's location in the Pudong New Area offers easy access to public transportation and a wide range of amenities.

πŸ’Ό Interview & Application Insights

- Typical Process: Diageo's interview process typically consists of three to four rounds, including phone or video screens, in-person interviews, and final presentations. The process may vary depending on the role and the candidate's experience.
- Key Assessment Areas: Candidates can expect to be assessed on their project management skills, strategic thinking, communication and influencing skills, leadership skills, and cultural fit with Diageo's organization.
- Application Tips:
- Resume: Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant experience in project management, consumer-driven strategy development, and brand management. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and achievements.
- Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to explain why you are interested in this role and how your skills and experience make you a strong fit for Diageo's organization. Address the specific requirements of the role and how you can contribute to Diageo's success.
- Portfolio/Examples: If applicable, provide examples of your work that demonstrate your skills in project management, consumer insights, and brand strategy development.

ATS Keywords: Project management, consumer insights, brand strategy, stakeholder management, cross-functional teams, innovation, APAC, global brand strategy, regional growth strategy, Diageo, beverage industry.

ASSUMPTION: Diageo's interview process is designed to assess candidates' skills and cultural fit with the organization. Successful candidates will have a strong track record in project management and consumer-driven strategy development, as well as excellent communication and influencing skills.

πŸ› οΈ Tools & Technologies

- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, JIRA)
- Data analysis tools (e.g., Excel, Google Analytics)
- Consumer research tools (e.g., SurveyMonkey, Google Forms)
- Brand management tools (e.g., Brandfolder, Bynder)

ASSUMPTION: This role requires proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and project management tools. Familiarity with data analysis, consumer research, and brand management tools would be an asset.

πŸ‘” Cultural Fit Considerations

- Company Values: Diageo's company values are Celebrate Life, Win Together, Be the Best, and Trust Our People. Successful candidates will demonstrate a strong alignment with these values and be able to contribute to Diageo's culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence.
- Work Style: Diageo's work style is characterized by a high degree of collaboration, cross-functional teamwork, and a focus on delivering results. Successful candidates will be able to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and be comfortable working with a wide range of stakeholders.
- Self-Assessment Questions:
- How do you align with Diageo's company values, and how can you contribute to Diageo's culture of collaboration, innovation, and excellence?
- How comfortable are you working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment and collaborating with a wide range of stakeholders?
- How do you approach project management, and how do you ensure the successful delivery of projects on time and within budget?

ASSUMPTION: Diageo's culture is characterized by a strong focus on collaboration, innovation, and excellence. Successful candidates will be able to demonstrate a strong alignment with Diageo's company values and be comfortable working in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

- Role-Specific Challenges: This role requires a high degree of cross-functional collaboration and stakeholder management. Successful candidates will need to be able to navigate complex stakeholder networks and influence a wide range of stakeholders to deliver projects on time and within budget.
- Company-Specific Challenges: Diageo is a large, multinational corporation with a complex organizational structure. Successful candidates will need to be able to navigate Diageo's matrix organization and build effective working relationships with stakeholders at all levels.
- Industry-Specific Challenges: The beverage industry is highly competitive and dynamic, with a constant need for innovation and adaptation. Successful candidates will need to be able to respond to changes in the market and adapt their strategies accordingly.

ASSUMPTION: This role presents significant challenges in terms of cross-functional collaboration, stakeholder management, and navigating a complex organizational structure. Successful candidates will need to be highly adaptable, resilient, and able to thrive in a dynamic, fast-paced environment.

πŸ“ˆ Similar Roles Comparison

- Role Differentiation: This role is focused on regional innovation projects, with a strong emphasis on delivering projects aligned with global brand strategy and regional growth strategy. In contrast, related roles may focus more on global brand strategy development, local market execution, or cross-functional team coordination.
- Industry Context: The beverage industry is highly competitive and dynamic, with a constant need for innovation and adaptation. This role requires a strong understanding of the beverage industry and the ability to respond to changes in the market.
- Career Path Comparison: This role offers significant opportunities for career growth and development within Diageo's global organization. Successful candidates can expect to progress to more senior roles within Diageo's global organization, with the potential to work on global pipeline projects and contribute to Diageo's global brand strategies.

ASSUMPTION: This role is differentiated by its focus on regional innovation projects and the requirement to deliver projects aligned with global brand strategy and regional growth strategy. Successful candidates will have a strong understanding of the beverage industry and the ability to respond to changes in the market.

πŸ“ Sample Projects

- Role-Specific Projects: Developing a new product innovation for the APAC market, from ideation to commercialization, in collaboration with global brand teams, regional marketing teams, and cross-functional stakeholders.
- Industry-Specific Projects: Conducting consumer research to identify trends and insights in the beverage industry, and using these insights to inform brand strategy and innovation projects.
- Reporting Responsibilities: Preparing regular project updates and reports for stakeholders at all levels, including global brand teams, regional marketing teams, and senior leadership.

ASSUMPTION: This role involves a wide range of projects, from regional innovation projects to industry-specific research and reporting responsibilities. Successful candidates will have a strong track record in project management and consumer-driven strategy development.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

- Role-Specific Questions:
- How does this role fit into Diageo's global brand strategy and regional growth strategy?
- What are the key priorities for this role in the first 90 days?
- How does this role collaborate with global brand teams, regional marketing teams, and cross-functional stakeholders?
- Company-Specific Questions:
- How does Diageo support the professional development and career growth of its employees?
- What is Diageo's approach to innovation and how does this role contribute to Diageo's innovation agenda?
- How does Diageo measure the success of its innovation projects, and how does this role contribute to those metrics?
- Industry-Specific Questions:
- How does Diageo respond to changes in the beverage industry and adapt its strategies accordingly?
- What are the key trends and insights in the beverage industry, and how does this role contribute to Diageo's understanding of those trends?
- How does Diageo approach sustainability and social responsibility in the beverage industry?

ASSUMPTION: These questions are designed to provide insight into the role, the company, and the industry, and to help candidates assess their fit with the organization and the opportunity.

πŸ“Œ Next Steps for Applicants

- To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through the [Diageo Careers portal](https://diageo.wd3.myworkdayjobs.com/Diageo_Careers/job/Shanghai-China/Senior-Innovation-Brand-Manager--APAC_JR1115335).
- Tailor your resume to highlight your relevant experience in project management, consumer-driven strategy development, and brand management. Use specific examples to demonstrate your skills and achievements.
- Use your cover letter to explain why you are interested in this role and how your skills and experience make you a strong fit for Diageo's organization. Address the specific requirements of the role and how you can contribute to Diageo's success.
- Prepare examples of your work that demonstrate your skills in project management, consumer insights, and brand strategy development.
- Follow up with the hiring manager one week after submitting your application to express your interest in the role and reiterate your qualifications.
- Concrete preparation steps related to resume customization: Research Diageo's brand portfolio and global brand strategies to ensure your resume highlights your relevant experience and aligns with Diageo's organization.
- Concrete preparation step related to cover letter: Use your cover letter to explain how your skills and experience make you a strong fit for Diageo's organization and how you can contribute to Diageo's success in the beverage industry.
- Concrete preparation step related to portfolio/examples: Prepare examples of your work that demonstrate your skills in project management, consumer insights, and brand strategy development, with a focus on regional innovation projects and delivering projects aligned with global brand strategy and regional growth strategy.
- Follow-up recommendation with timeline: Follow up with the hiring manager one week after submitting your application to express your interest in the role and reiterate your qualifications. If you have not heard back after two weeks, follow up again to inquire about the status of your application.

⚠️ Disclaimer

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