π Core Information
πΉ Job Title: SpΓ©cialiste principal, Marketing / Senior Specialist, Marketing
πΉ Company: Merck
πΉ Location: Ontario or Quebec, with hybrid travel to our Kirkland, Quebec Headquarters
πΉ Job Type: Full-Time
πΉ Category: Marketing
πΉ Date Posted: July 10, 2025
π Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Developing and implementing marketing plans
- Conducting market analysis and providing strategic insights
- Collaborating with global teams to execute brand initiatives
- Managing promotional budgets and evaluating marketing tactics
- Working cross-functionally to ensure effective strategy implementation
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strong understanding of the Canadian livestock or agricultural sector and a solid background in marketing, with a focus on digital marketing and data analysis.
π Key Responsibilities
β
Marketing Plan Development and Execution: Develop, plan, coordinate, and implement marketing plans for assigned brands.
β
Market Analysis: Provide in-depth market, industry, and competitive analysis, as well as positioning strategies.
β
Sales Forecasting: Analyze market trends, sales potential, expenses, and prepare forecasts for existing products.
β
Revenue Forecasting: Analyze market potential for products to prepare revenue forecasts for review.
β
Brand Team Leadership: Lead a local brand team and collaborate with them to prepare an annual brand marketing plan.
β
Global Collaboration: Work in collaboration with the global department to implement initiatives locally and establish life cycle planning.
β
Market Research: Utilize market research to make concrete recommendations that support brand strategies.
β
Tactics Development: Develop online and offline tactics that are consistent with strategies and objectives, driving revenue for brands.
β
Budget Management: Manage and control promotional budgets in the most efficient manner to maximize brand objectives.
β
Tactic Evaluation: Test, monitor, and evaluate marketing tactics, adjusting plans as necessary.
β
Cross-Functional Collaboration: Work closely with several other departments to ensure that all aspects of strategies are effectively implemented.
ASSUMPTION: The successful candidate will have experience in marketing, with a focus on digital marketing and data analysis, as well as strong communication and teamwork skills.
π― Required Qualifications
Education:
- Bachelor's degree in Science, Animal Science, Business Administration, Marketing, or a related field.
Experience:
- Preference given to candidates with a strong knowledge or experience in the Canadian livestock or agricultural sector.
Required Skills:
- Strong analytical and computer skills, including Excel.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Demonstrated ability to work well with cross-functional teams.
- Previous product management experience is an asset.
- Strong digital marketing acumen is an asset.
- Language requirements: French both written and spoken if located in Quebec. English is preferred for business with national and global stakeholders.
- Demonstrated ability to learn quickly.
- Experience in portfolio strategizing and plan execution.
- Technical knowledge of MS Office Suite.
Preferred Skills:
- None specified.
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should have a Bachelor's degree in a relevant field and preferably experience in the Canadian livestock or agricultural sector. Strong analytical, communication, and teamwork skills are essential, along with proficiency in digital marketing and MS Office.
π° Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: Not specified. Industry standard for a Senior Marketing Specialist in Canada is CAD 80,000 - 120,000 per year.
Benefits:
- Not specified. Merck offers a comprehensive benefits package, including health, dental, vision, retirement savings, and employee assistance programs.
Working Hours: 40 hours per week.
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for a Senior Marketing Specialist in Canada. The benefits package and working hours are based on Merck's standard offerings.
π Applicant Insights
π Company Context
Industry: Pharmaceutical Manufacturing
Company Size: 10,001+ employees
Founded: Not specified
Company Description:
- Merck, known as MSD outside the United States and Canada, is a global healthcare company that develops, manufactures, and markets a wide range of prescription and over-the-counter medicines, vaccines, biologic therapies, and animal health products. The company is committed to improving the health and well-being of people and animals worldwide through its innovative medicines, vaccines, and animal health products.
Company Specialties:
- Not specified
Company Website:
www.msd.com
ASSUMPTION: Merck is a large, global healthcare company with a diverse product portfolio and a strong commitment to improving health and well-being worldwide.
π Role Analysis
Career Level: Mid-career to senior-level marketing role
Reporting Structure: The Senior Marketing Specialist will report directly to the Associate Marketing Director.
Work Arrangement: Hybrid work arrangement, with a combination of remote work and in-person work at the Kirkland, Quebec headquarters.
Growth Opportunities:
- Opportunities for career advancement within the marketing department and the broader organization.
- Potential to take on increased responsibilities and leadership roles as the company continues to grow and expand its product portfolio.
ASSUMPTION: This role offers opportunities for career growth and development within the marketing department and the broader organization.
π Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Hybrid work arrangement, with a combination of remote work and in-person work at the Kirkland, Quebec headquarters.
Office Location(s):
- Kirkland, Quebec
- Ontario (multiple locations)
Geographic Context:
- Ontario: Diverse urban and rural areas, with a mix of cultural and socioeconomic environments.
- Quebec: Predominantly French-speaking, with a strong cultural identity and a mix of urban and rural areas.
Work Schedule: Flexible work schedule, with a focus on results and productivity.
ASSUMPTION: The hybrid work arrangement allows for flexibility in work location and schedule, with a focus on results and productivity.
πΌ Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
1. Online application submission
2. Phone or video screening
3. In-person or virtual interviews with hiring managers and team members
4. Final interviews with senior leadership
5. Background check and offer extension
Key Assessment Areas:
- Marketing skills and experience
- Analytical and problem-solving abilities
- Communication and teamwork skills
- Cultural fit and alignment with company values
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant marketing skills and experiences.
- Prepare for behavioral and situational interview questions that focus on marketing strategies, tactics, and problem-solving.
- Research the company and the specific brand(s) you would be working with to demonstrate your enthusiasm and understanding.
ATS Keywords: Marketing strategy, brand management, market analysis, digital marketing, budget management, cross-functional collaboration, product lifecycle management, team leadership
ASSUMPTION: The application process and interview questions will focus on assessing the candidate's marketing skills, experience, and cultural fit.
π οΈ Tools & Technologies
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Marketing automation and CRM platforms (e.g., Marketo, Salesforce)
- Data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI)
- Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello)
- Social media management tools (e.g., Hootsuite, Buffer)
ASSUMPTION: The successful candidate will have experience with relevant marketing tools and technologies, as well as a strong proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
π Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Innovation: Merck is committed to pushing the boundaries of scientific discovery to improve human and animal health.
- Caring: The company prioritizes the well-being of its employees, customers, and the communities it serves.
- Results: Merck focuses on delivering high-quality products and services that meet the needs of its customers.
- Diversity: The company values the unique perspectives and experiences of its employees and fosters an inclusive work environment.
Work Style:
- Collaborative: Merck encourages teamwork and cross-functional collaboration to drive innovation and success.
- Data-driven: The company uses data and analytics to inform decision-making and improve performance.
- Agile: Merck is committed to adapting to change and responding quickly to new opportunities and challenges.
Self-Assessment Questions:
1. How do you approach analyzing market data to inform marketing strategies?
2. Can you provide an example of a successful marketing campaign you've led, and how you measured its impact?
3. How do you collaborate with cross-functional teams to ensure effective strategy implementation?
4. How do you stay up-to-date with industry trends and best practices in digital marketing?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be able to demonstrate their alignment with Merck's values and work style, as well as their ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
β οΈ Potential Challenges
1. Language Barrier: Depending on the location, candidates may need to work in French or English, which could present a challenge for those not proficient in both languages.
2. Work-Life Balance: The hybrid work arrangement may require candidates to manage their time effectively between remote work and in-person meetings at the headquarters.
3. Industry-Specific Knowledge: Candidates may need to quickly familiarize themselves with the specific aspects of the livestock or agricultural sector relevant to their role.
4. Global Collaboration: Working with global teams may present unique challenges in communication and time zone management.
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be prepared to address these potential challenges and demonstrate their ability to adapt and thrive in a dynamic work environment.
π Similar Roles Comparison
1. Marketing Manager, Consumer Health: This role focuses on marketing over-the-counter (OTC) products, with a stronger emphasis on consumer behavior and retail marketing.
2. Senior Brand Manager, Animal Health: This role is more focused on the animal health sector, with a greater emphasis on veterinary relationships and animal health products.
3. Marketing Director, Pharmaceuticals: This role involves marketing prescription medications, with a stronger emphasis on healthcare provider relationships and regulatory compliance.
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should understand the unique aspects of each role and be able to articulate how their skills and experiences make them a strong fit for the Senior Marketing Specialist role.
π Sample Projects
1. Brand Launch: Develop and execute a marketing plan for the launch of a new animal health product, including market research, competitive analysis, and tactical implementation.
2. Product Lifecycle Management: Collaborate with cross-functional teams to develop and implement a lifecycle management plan for an existing animal health product, including market segmentation, pricing strategies, and promotional tactics.
3. Digital Marketing Campaign: Create and execute a targeted digital marketing campaign to drive revenue for an established animal health brand, utilizing social media, email marketing, and SEO/SEM strategies.
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should be able to provide specific examples of marketing projects they've led, highlighting their strategic approach, tactical execution, and measurable results.
β Key Questions to Ask During Interview
1. What are the key marketing challenges facing the brand(s) I would be working with?
2. How does the company support the professional development of its marketing employees?
3. What are the most important qualities you look for in a Senior Marketing Specialist?
4. How does the company measure the success of its marketing campaigns, and how do you ensure that marketing efforts align with overall business objectives?
5. What are the most rewarding aspects of working in marketing at Merck, and what are some of the unique challenges the department faces?
ASSUMPTION: Candidates should ask thoughtful questions that demonstrate their interest in the role and their understanding of the marketing landscape at Merck.
π Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
1. Submit your application through the following link:
HERE
2. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant marketing skills and experiences.
3. Prepare for behavioral and situational interview questions that focus on marketing strategies, tactics, and problem-solving.
4. Research the company and the specific brand(s) you would be working with to demonstrate your enthusiasm and understanding.
5. Follow up with the hiring manager one week after your interview to express your continued interest in the position.
β οΈ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.