Trade Activation Manager

Suntory Holdings Limited; Petaling Jaya; Hybrid; MYR 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading beverage company is seeking a Trade Activation Manager in Petaling Jaya, Malaysia. You will design and execute trade activation strategies that engage shoppers and drive conversion in retail channels. The ideal candidate will have 5–8 years of experience in trade activation, a bachelor's degree in marketing or business, and strong analytical and communication skills. This role offers a hybrid work model and various benefits, including medical coverage and generous leave.

Benefits

17 days Annual Leave

16% Employer EPF contribution

Medical and insurance coverage

Optical and dental coverage

Qualifications

• 5–8 years’ experience in trade activation or similar roles, preferably in FMCG.
• Strong understanding of shopper engagement, POS requirements, and retail dynamics.
• Proficiency in analyzing market data and delivering actionable insights.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement shopper-focused trade activation programs and in-store campaigns.
• Partner with retailers to create engaging displays, POS materials, and digital signage.
• Manage budgets and optimize ROI for trade initiatives.

Skills

Trade activation experience

Analytical skills

Communication skills

Negotiation skills

Presentation skills

Education

Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, or related field

Job description

Trade Activation Manager

Requisition ID: 11165

Who We Are

Suntory Beverage & Food strives to be the most locally beloved beverage company in every market we serve. Guided by our founding principles of "Growing for Good," "Yatte Minahare" (the spirit of bold ambition), and "Giving Back to Society", we pursue sustainable growth, bold innovation, and meaningful social impact. Across the Asia Pacific region, we proudly offer trusted brands including Ribena®, Lucozade Sport™, BRAND'S® Essence of Chicken, Tea+, BOSS Coffee, V Energy - delivering quality products that honor our commitment to harmony with people and nature.

At Suntory Malaysia, we are proud to be part of the global Suntory Group, a Japanese multinational renowned for its unwavering commitment to health, wellness, and enriching lives. With a legacy deeply rooted in innovation and natural science, we deliver high-quality health enrichment and functional beverages tailored to the needs of Malaysian consumers.

Guided by our mission to “Inspire the Brilliance of Life”, we blend cutting-edge research with a profound respect for nature to support holistic well-being — from the inside out.

We are the proud brand owner of several iconic products with strong cultural heritage and consumer trust:

• Ribena – the beloved blackcurrant drink rich in Vitamin C.
• BRAND’S® – a trusted name in health supplements, including the renowned BRAND’S® Essence of Chicken.
• C.C. Lemon – a refreshing lemon-flavored drink packed with Vitamin C, offering a zesty boost for your daily wellness.

About your role

As a Trade Activation Manager, you will play a pivotal role in bringing our brands to life at the point of purchase. Your mission is to design and execute impactful trade activation strategies that engage shoppers, drive conversion, and strengthen our presence across retail channels. You’ll collaborate with cross-functional teams and retail partners to ensure seamless execution and measurable results.

Role Type: People Manager with 1 x Subordinate – Trade Activation Executive
Reporting Line Manager: Head of Trade Marketing, South Cluster

Compensation and Benefits:

• 17 days Annual Leave
• 16% Employer EPF contribution
• Medical and insurance coverage (including direct dependents)
• Optical and dental coverage
• Hybrid work mode

What You'll Do

• Develop and implement shopper-focused trade activation programs and in-store campaigns.
• Partner with retailers to create engaging displays, POS materials, and digital signage.
• Analyze shopper data and market trends to tailor activation strategies.
• Manage budgets and optimize ROI for trade initiatives.
• Track KPIs such as sales growth, engagement, and ROI, and provide actionable insights.
• Build strong relationships with retail partners and lead cross-functional teams for flawless execution.

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What's in it for you

• Opportunity to shape shopper experiences and influence purchase decisions.
• Work in a dynamic FMCG environment with leading brands and innovative campaigns.
• Collaborate with passionate teams and develop expertise in trade marketing and activation.
• Be part of a global organization that values growth, creativity, and leadership.

What You need to be successful

• 5–8 years’ experience in trade activation or similar roles, preferably in FMCG.
• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, or related field.
• Strong understanding of shopper engagement, POS requirements, and retail dynamics.
• Excellent analytical skills to interpret market trends and consumer behavior.
• Ability to manage multiple projects and work cross-functionally.
• Strong communication, negotiation, and presentation skills.
• Proficiency in analyzing market data and delivering actionable insights.

Our DEI Commitment

At Suntory, we recognize that diverse knowledge, perspectives, and backgrounds contribute to our collective success. We are committed to fostering a diverse, equitable, and inclusive workplace where all individuals can bring their whole selves to work every day, regardless of race, color, religion, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, age, or any other protected characteristic.

Our recruitment and selection processes are designed to highlight what Suntory offers as an employer while allowing candidates to share their unique skills and experiences. We understand that career trajectories vary, and if you believe your experience/background can benefit our team, we encourage you to apply. We endeavor to make our interview process as inclusive as possible and offer reasonable accommodations as needed. Together, we can cultivate a workplace where everyone can thrive and propel our mission of Growing for Good.