Brand Activation Manager - FMCG Events

Placements24; Bloemfontein; Hybrid; ZAR 350,000 - 520,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein, Free State, is seeking a dynamic Brand Activation Manager to lead experiential campaigns across events, in-store activations, and promotional programs. The role combines strategic planning with hands-on execution to drive awareness, trial, and loyalty within a diverse FMCG portfolio.

You will collaborate with marketing, sales, and creative teams, manage agency partners and vendors, and ensure campaigns meet timelines and budgets.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, PR or related field.
• Minimum 4 years in brand activation, events or experiential marketing, preferably FMCG.
• Proven track record delivering engaging brand experiences and campaigns.
• Strong project management with ability to handle multiple projects under deadlines.
• Excellent creativity, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Experience managing budgets and negotiating with vendors/suppliers.
• Willingness to travel within Bloemfontein region and beyond.
• Familiarity with Free State market and retail landscape beneficial.

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute brand activation strategies aligned with marketing objectives.
• Plan and manage events, sponsorships and in-store promotions.
• Collaborate with marketing, sales and creative teams for consistent messaging.
• Manage agencies and suppliers to deliver activation experiences within budget.
• Source and manage promotional materials, staffing and logistics for activations.
• Measure ROI and KPIs to assess activation effectiveness.
• Identify opportunities for innovative consumer engagement.

Skills

Brand activation

Event management

Project management

Budget management

Vendor negotiation

Communication

Education

Bachelor's degree in Marketing or related field

Tools

MS Office

MS Excel

Project management tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading innovator in the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods (FMCG) sector, is seeking a dynamic and creative Brand Activation Manager to join their marketing team in Bloemfontein, Free State. This role is pivotal in bringing brands to life through engaging events, in-store activations, and promotional campaigns. You will be responsible for developing and executing strategies that connect with consumers on a personal level, driving brand awareness, trial, and loyalty. This is an exciting opportunity to shape memorable brand experiences for a diverse portfolio of products. The role will involve a hybrid work model, combining remote flexibility with on-site collaboration.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute comprehensive brand activation strategies and plans that align with overall marketing objectives.
• Conceptualize, plan, and manage experiential marketing campaigns, including events, sponsorships, and in-store promotions.
• Collaborate with marketing, sales, and creative teams to ensure consistent brand messaging and execution.
• Manage agency partners and suppliers to deliver high-quality activation experiences within budget.
• Source and manage promotional materials, staffing, and logistical requirements for all activations.
• Measure and report on the effectiveness of brand activation initiatives, analyzing ROI and key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Identify opportunities for innovation and new approaches to consumer engagement.
• Ensure all activations comply with relevant regulations and brand guidelines.
• Build strong relationships with retailers and key stakeholders to facilitate successful in-store activations.
• Stay informed about market trends, competitor activities, and consumer preferences related to brand engagement.

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, or a related field.
• Minimum of 4 years of experience in brand activation, event management, or experiential marketing, preferably within the FMCG industry.
• Proven track record of successfully planning and executing engaging brand experiences and promotional campaigns.
• Strong project management skills with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously under tight deadlines.
• Excellent creativity, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Experience in managing budgets and negotiating with vendors and suppliers.
• Ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team, with a willingness to travel within the Bloemfontein region and potentially beyond.
• Familiarity with the Free State market and retail landscape is advantageous.
• Proficiency in relevant software, such as project management tools and MS Office Suite.
• A proactive and problem-solving attitude.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary and a comprehensive benefits package, including medical aid and retirement fund options. This hybrid role provides a balance between remote work flexibility and the opportunity for in-person collaboration in Bloemfontein. Employees benefit from opportunities for professional development, ongoing training, and career growth within a supportive and innovative company culture. Experience working on exciting campaigns for well-known FMCG brands and contributing to memorable consumer interactions are key aspects of this role.