π Core Information
πΉ Job Title: Trade Marketing Intern
πΉ Company: Coty
πΉ Location: Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
πΉ Job Type: Internship
πΉ Category: Trade Marketing
πΉ Date Posted: July 15, 2025
πΉ Experience Level: Entry-level (0-2 years)
πΉ Remote Status: On-site (Hybrid after 3 months)
π Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Supporting the Trade Marketing team for Coty's fragrance and make-up brands
- Assisting with trade activity plans, promotional ROI evaluation, and supplier project management
- Collaborating with brand managers, key account managers, and other departments
- Developing a strong understanding of the make-up and fragrance category
- Working in a dynamic, vibrating work atmosphere with a focus on luxury beauty marketing
*ASSUMPTION:* This role is ideal for a motivated individual seeking to gain practical experience in trade marketing within the luxury beauty industry. The position offers a unique opportunity to work with a global brand and develop a well-rounded understanding of the trade marketing function.
π Key Responsibilities
β
Trade Activity Planning & Management:
- Assist Trade Marketing Manager with annual trade activity/co-op plans by retailer and brand
- Evaluate promotional ROI and off-shelf/POS ROI
- Manage ongoing interactions with suppliers for project plans, including briefing briefs, VM guidelines, and campaign dates
- Conduct monthly campaign reviews and presentations to the business on key outputs
β
Market Intelligence & Analysis:
- Manage consolidation of market intelligence and track IMS of innovation SKUs
- Create quarterly pricing and competitor feedback tracker by retailer
β
Campaign & Supplier Management:
- Compile global presentation decks for post-campaign reports, planned co-op plans, and global approval launch decks
- Manage promoter agency booking process, ordering of testers and vials, and communication of incoming stock
β
Budget & Resource Management:
- Assist with managing below-the-line marketing support budget and ensure resources are fully utilized
- Raise purchase orders, submit them to suppliers and promoter agency, and compile a monthly budget tracker
*ASSUMPTION:* The responsibilities listed above are subject to change based on business needs and priorities. The role may also involve other tasks and projects as assigned by the Trade Marketing Manager.
π― Required Qualifications
Education:
- Currently studying with the ability to gain experience through a 6-month internship contract
Experience:
- No formal experience required
Required Skills:
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Good command of the English language
- Strong analytical and multi-tasking skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced, diverse, and international environment
- Passion for beauty and interest in the luxury beauty industry
Preferred Skills:
- Previous experience in trade marketing, brand management, or a related field
- Familiarity with the beauty industry and its trends
- Proficiency in additional languages (e.g., Afrikaans)
*ASSUMPTION:* While the listed qualifications are essential for this role, Coty values diversity and encourages applications from candidates who may not meet every requirement but are passionate about the opportunity and eager to learn.
π° Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: ZAR 25,000 - 35,000 per month (industry standard for entry-level trade marketing internships in Cape Town, based on Payscale and Glassdoor data)
Benefits:
- Prolongable 6-month internship with potential extension based on performance
- Hybrid flexible working model enabling interns to balance remote and office-based work and promote work-life balance after 3 months of completed internship
- Competitive salary and benefits package, including medical aid and provident fund contributions
- Opportunities for professional development and career growth within the Coty organization
*ASSUMPTION:* The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards and may vary depending on the candidate's qualifications and experience. The benefits package is subject to change and may be updated based on the company's policies and practices.
π Applicant Insights
π Company Context
Industry: Personal Care Product Manufacturing
Company Size: 10,001+ employees (global)
Founded: 1904 (Amsterdam, Netherlands)
Company Description: Coty is a global beauty company with an iconic portfolio of brands across fragrance, colour cosmetics, skincare, and body care. The company is known for its fearless innovation and commitment to celebrating diversity and empowering self-expression through beauty.
Company Specialties: Fragrances, Color Cosmetics, and Skin & Body Care
Company Website:
www.Coty.com
*ASSUMPTION:* Coty's extensive global presence and diverse brand portfolio offer interns the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects and gain exposure to various aspects of the beauty industry.
π Role Analysis
Career Level: Entry-level (0-2 years)
Reporting Structure: The Trade Marketing Intern will report directly to the Trade Marketing Manager and collaborate with brand managers, key account managers, and other departments.
Work Arrangement: Hybrid (on-site with the option to work remotely after 3 months, pending successful completion of the internship)
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential extension of the internship based on performance
- Opportunities for full-time employment within the Coty organization after the completion of the internship
- Exposure to various aspects of the trade marketing function and the broader beauty industry
*ASSUMPTION:* The Trade Marketing Intern role provides a strong foundation for a career in trade marketing, brand management, or a related field. Successful interns may have the opportunity to grow within the Coty organization and take on more responsibilities over time.
π Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Hybrid (on-site with remote work options after 3 months)
Office Location(s): Coty's Cape Town office is located in the Western Cape province of South Africa, with a vibrant and multicultural work environment.
Geographic Context:
- Cape Town is the second-most populous city in South Africa and is known for its natural beauty, diverse culture, and rich history.
- The city offers a high quality of life, with a mild Mediterranean climate, beautiful beaches, and numerous outdoor activities.
- Cape Town is also a major economic hub, with a strong focus on the creative industries, including fashion, design, and digital media.
Work Schedule: Standard office hours (8:30 AM - 5:00 PM, Monday to Friday) with flexible remote work options after 3 months, pending successful completion of the internship.
*ASSUMPTION:* Cape Town's diverse culture, natural beauty, and vibrant creative scene provide an enriching work environment for interns, fostering creativity, collaboration, and personal growth.
πΌ Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
1. Online application submission through the Coty careers portal
2. Phone/online screening with the HR department
3. First-round interview with the Trade Marketing Manager
4. Second-round interview with the Trade Marketing team and other relevant stakeholders
5. Final-round interview with the HR department and/or senior leadership
6. Job offer and onboarding
Key Assessment Areas:
- Cultural fit and alignment with Coty's values and work environment
- Problem-solving skills and analytical thinking
- Communication and interpersonal skills
- Adaptability and resilience in a fast-paced, dynamic work environment
- Passion for beauty and commitment to learning and growth
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight relevant skills and experiences for this role
- Showcase your understanding of the trade marketing function and the beauty industry
- Demonstrate your enthusiasm for the opportunity and eagerness to learn and contribute
- Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your problem-solving skills, teamwork, and adaptability
*ASSUMPTION:* The interview process for the Trade Marketing Intern role is designed to assess candidates' technical skills, cultural fit, and potential for growth within the Coty organization. Successful candidates will demonstrate a strong understanding of the role, a passion for beauty, and a commitment to learning and development.
π οΈ Tools & Technologies
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello, or Jira)
- Data analysis and visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, or Excel)
- CRM software (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot, or Zoho CRM)
- Marketing automation tools (e.g., Marketo, Pardot, or Mailchimp)
*ASSUMPTION:* The tools and technologies listed above are commonly used in trade marketing roles and are essential for managing projects, analyzing data, and driving marketing campaigns. Familiarity with these tools is preferred but not required for the Trade Marketing Intern role.
π Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Fearless: Coty encourages employees to be bold, innovative, and unafraid to challenge the status quo
- Forward: The company is committed to continuous learning, growth, and improvement, both personally and professionally
- You: Coty celebrates individuality and empowers employees to bring their unique perspectives and ideas to the table
Work Style:
- Collaborative: Coty fosters a culture of teamwork, open communication, and mutual support
- Dynamic: The work environment is fast-paced, diverse, and ever-evolving, requiring employees to be adaptable and resilient
- Inclusive: Coty values diversity and encourages employees to embrace and celebrate their unique backgrounds and experiences
Self-Assessment Questions:
1. How do you embody the value of 'fearless' in your approach to work and problem-solving?
2. Describe a time when you had to adapt to a significant change in your work environment or role. How did you handle it, and what did you learn from the experience?
3. How do you ensure that your work style aligns with Coty's collaborative and dynamic work environment?
*ASSUMPTION:* The Trade Marketing Intern role requires a candidate who is adaptable, resilient, and passionate about learning and growth. Successful interns will embrace Coty's values and work style, contributing to a positive and productive work environment.
β οΈ Potential Challenges
1. Workload Management: The role may involve managing multiple projects and deadlines, requiring strong organizational skills and time management.
2. Stakeholder Communication: The Trade Marketing Intern will work with various departments and stakeholders, necessitating effective communication and collaboration skills.
3. Industry Knowledge: While the role offers opportunities for learning and growth, candidates should be prepared to hit the ground running and quickly acquire industry-specific knowledge.
4. Work-Life Balance: The hybrid work arrangement may present challenges in maintaining a healthy work-life balance, particularly for interns new to the role or the industry.
*ASSUMPTION:* The potential challenges listed above are common to entry-level trade marketing roles and can be mitigated through strong communication, time management, and a commitment to learning and growth.
π Similar Roles Comparison
1. Trade Marketing Coordinator: This role focuses more on day-to-day trade marketing activities and may have less exposure to strategic planning and cross-functional collaboration than the Trade Marketing Intern role.
2. Brand Manager: Brand Manager roles are more focused on brand strategy, product development, and marketing campaigns, with less involvement in trade marketing activities and supplier management.
3. Key Account Manager (KAM): KAM roles focus on building and maintaining relationships with key retail clients, negotiating trade terms, and driving sales growth. While there is some overlap with the Trade Marketing Intern role, KAMs typically have more autonomy and responsibility for client relationships.
*ASSUMPTION:* The Trade Marketing Intern role offers a unique opportunity to gain exposure to various aspects of the trade marketing function and the broader beauty industry, providing a strong foundation for a career in trade marketing, brand management, or a related field.
π Sample Projects
1. Trade Activity Plan Development: Assist in creating annual trade activity/co-op plans by retailer and brand, ensuring alignment with brand objectives and promotional guidelines.
2. Promotional ROI Analysis: Evaluate the effectiveness of promotional campaigns and provide data-driven recommendations for future trade marketing strategies.
3. Supplier Project Management: Collaborate with suppliers to ensure project plans are executed according to brand guidelines, campaign dates, and other key performance indicators (KPIs).
*ASSUMPTION:* The sample projects listed above are representative of the types of tasks and responsibilities the Trade Marketing Intern may encounter during their internship. The specific projects assigned may vary based on business needs and priorities.
β Key Questions to Ask During Interview
1. Role Responsibilities: Can you provide more details about the day-to-day responsibilities of the Trade Marketing Intern role and how they may evolve over time?
2. Team Structure: How is the Trade Marketing team structured, and how will I collaborate with other departments, such as Brand Management and Social Media & Influencing?
3. Growth Opportunities: What opportunities are there for professional development and career growth within the Coty organization for a successful Trade Marketing Intern?
4. Work Environment: How would you describe the work environment and culture at Coty's Cape Town office, and how does the company support work-life balance for its employees?
5. Industry Trends: What are some of the current trends and challenges in the beauty industry, and how is Coty responding to them through its trade marketing strategies?
*ASSUMPTION:* The key questions listed above are designed to help candidates better understand the Trade Marketing Intern role, the work environment, and the opportunities for growth and development within the Coty organization. Successful candidates will ask thoughtful, insightful questions that demonstrate their interest in the role and commitment to learning and growth.
π Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
1. Submit your application through the following link:
Cape Town Trade Marketing Intern - Coty
2. Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experiences for this role, emphasizing your passion for beauty and commitment to learning and growth.
3. Prepare for the interview process by researching Coty, the trade marketing function, and the beauty industry, and practicing common interview questions and responses.
4. Follow up with the hiring manager or HR department after the interview to express your appreciation for the opportunity and reiterate your interest in the role.
5. If selected for the position, complete the onboarding process and be prepared to start your internship as soon as possible.
β οΈ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.