ABOUT THE ROLE

We are seeking a driven individual to support the Volkswagen Brand Manager in the development and implementation of national advertising campaigns and launch strategies to improve the Volkswagen brand image in line with the overall brand strategy.  This position is based in the VW Passenger Vehicles Department - NSO (Sandton)

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Providing support in developing all creative and media briefs, in conjunction with the Volkswagen Brand Manager, for all above and below-the-line Volkswagen brand communication by collating all relevant marketing information. Provide agency colleagues with a deep understanding of the defined target market, conveying relevant consumer insight.
• Supporting the Volkswagen Brand Manager in all media planning, in line with the Volkswagen Consumer Moments Planning methodology, to ensure maximum cost efficiency and impact in reaching the defined target audience.
• Supporting the Volkswagen Brand Manager in evaluating marketing research studies to ensure that all communication achieves the desired brand image and health objectives. In addition, support the Volkswagen Brand Manager in using available brand data and research studies to translate into customer-focused brand strategies.
• Developing and distributing production information, campaign information and sales brochures to ensure up-to-date information is provided to dealers. Work closely with Customer Central and Product Marketing teams to enable this.
• Co-ordinating advertising plans with relevant PR personnel to ensure uniform brand messages and synchronized exposure to the media.
• Controlling responses to customer e-mail requests from the Customer Interaction Centre and acting as flow manager for basic information and handling requests from internal and external stakeholders on behalf of the VW Marketing Communications department.
• Assisting in the monitoring and controlling of the departmental budget through forecasting, tracking and reconciling expenditure against planned spend and performing other general administrative responsibilities 

REQUIREMENTS

Minimum Qualifications:

• A formal 3-year National Diploma or bachelor’s degree in marketing, Commerce or Communications from a recognized tertiary institution

Experience:

• A minimum of 3 years’ experience in a marketing environment
• Knowledge and understanding of brands and brand image

Technical & Behavioral Competencies:

• Excellent Marketing flair and a passion for brands and brand-building
• Knowledge and understanding of key Marketing principles
• In-depth understanding of the technological advances in Marketing, including social media and SEA
• Excellent communication ability, both written and oral, with an excellent command of the English language
• Good administrative, budgeting and organising skills, with excellent attention to detail
• A team player, yet able to work and manage independently
• Advanced proficiency in MS Office (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint), with well-developed re-port preparation/ presentation skills
• A solution-oriented approach and good problem-solving ability
• A high level of energy, enthusiasm and work commitment
• Effective stress management skills to operate effectively under pressure