Senior Manager, Channel Strategy & Planning

JOB SUMMARY

To lead the development of annual channel strategies and growth plans (MTP/AOP) by leveraging data-driven segmentation and robust Joint Business Plan (JBP) frameworks. You will drive retail excellence through the "Perfect Store" (5Ps) execution model and continuous performance tracking to maximize ROI and market leadership across all channels.

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Channel Planning

• Management of the channel plans through the annual planning cycle (MTP & AOP) including high level sources of growth
• Review market conditions, update on key trends and identify changes to channel strategy required
• Lead Channel planning sessions; inform wider team of key market issues or opportunities (e.g. competitor launches, emerging threats/opportunities, customer consolidations etc.)

Channel Segmentation & Prioritisation

• Define Segmentation Frameworks: Establish structured approaches to segment & prioritize channels and customers based on size, value, growth potential, and strategic importance.
• Develop tailored plans for each channel, ensuring differentiated propositions, initiatives, and activation strategies.
• Prioritize Investment & Resources: Identify important channels and customers and allocate commercial resources to maximize ROI and growth opportunities.

Channel & Customer framework

• Design Standardized joint business plan framework: Create a structured approach for joint planning with key customers, ensuring alignment on objectives, KPIs, and investment priorities.
• Integrate Strategic Levers: Embed category growth drivers, shopper insights, and channel strategies into the JBP process to deliver mutual value.

Perfect Store

• Define the Picture of Success (PoS): Codify the ideal outlet execution by channel/Segmentation (5Ps)
• Translate PoS into Measurable KPIs & Scorecards: Set weighted metrics
• Embed in Field Execution & Governance: Integrate into visit routines, and and continuous improvement loops with test–learn–scale.
• Enablement & Incentives: Provide playbooks, visual guides, and training; link trade terms and field incentives to PoS compliance and sales outcomes to drive consistent, high-quality execution.

Performance tracking and course correction

• Define the Picture of Success (PoS): Codify the ideal outlet execution by channel/Segmentation (5Ps)
• Translate PoS into Measurable KPIs & Scorecards: Set weighted metrics
• Embed in Field Execution & Governance: Integrate into visit routines, and and continuous improvement loops with test–learn–scale.
• Enablement & Incentives: Provide playbooks, visual guides, and training; link trade terms and field incentives to PoS compliance and sales outcomes to drive consistent, high-quality execution.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Education: Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Business Administration, Marketing, Economics, or a related field.
• Professional Experience: Minimum 7–10 years of experience in Trade Marketing, Channel Management, or Category Management within the FMCG industry.
• Strategic Planning: Proven track record in managing annual planning cycles (MTP/AOP), identifying growth drivers, and adapting strategies to shifting market trends and competitor moves.
• Commercial Acumen: Strong ability to develop Segmentation & Prioritization frameworks and allocate commercial resources/investments to maximize ROI.
• Retail Excellence: Deep understanding of the "Perfect Store" (5Ps) concept, with experience in creating measurable scorecards to drive execution excellence.
• Partnership Management: Expertise in designing and leading Joint Business Plan (JBP) frameworks with key customers to deliver mutual value and category growth.
• Analytical & Agile Mindset: Highly analytical with the ability to translate complex data into actionable insights and execute "Test–Learn–Scale" loops for continuous improvement.
• Leadership & Communication: Excellent English communication and stakeholder management skills, capable of influencing cross-functional teams (Trade Marketing, Sales).

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.