Trade Marketing and Brand Activation Specialist

SUMMARY:
Our client, a leading distributor of premium international sports, performance, lifestyle, and nutrition brands, is seeking an energetic and commercially driven Trade Marketing & Brand Activation Specialist to lead national trade marketing initiatives, retail activations, and consumer engagement strategies. The successful candidate will be responsible for driving brand visibility, enhancing retail execution, managing events and sponsorships, and creating impactful consumer experiences that support sales growth and strengthen brand presence across South Africa.

POSITION INFO:
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES: Develop and implement national trade marketing and brand activation strategies Plan, coordinate, and execute retail campaigns, product launches, promotions, and seasonal initiatives Drive in-store brand visibility through effective merchandising, POS displays, and retail execution Organise and manage brand activations, exhibitions, trade shows, sporting events, and experiential marketing campaigns Build and maintain relationships with retail partners, sporting organisations, clubs, gyms, ambassadors, influencers, and event partners Develop and execute community engagement initiatives, including grassroots sports and running events Manage sponsorships, ambassador programmes, and promotional activities to increase brand awareness Coordinate activation logistics, suppliers, agencies, promoters, and event staffing Monitor and maintain retail merchandising standards across all distribution channels Manage marketing assets, promotional materials, and maintain accurate asset registers and audits Work closely with Sales, Marketing, and Brand teams to align commercial objectives with marketing initiatives Track campaign performance, activation ROI, budgets, and provide post-event reporting and market insights Analyse consumer behaviour, competitor activity, and retail trends to identify growth opportunities Ensure all activations and marketing initiatives align with global brand standards and business objectives Travel nationally to support retail partners, activations, exhibitions, and events REQUIREMENTS : 3-5 years' experience in trade marketing, brand activations, events, experiential marketing, or retail marketing Experience within the sports, FMCG, retail, lifestyle, fitness, or consumer goods industries Proven experience managing retail campaigns, promotions, activations, and events Strong project management, planning, and organisational skills Excellent communication, relationship-building, and stakeholder management abilities Commercially minded with strong analytical and reporting skills Proficient in Microsoft Office (Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook) and Google Workspace Experience with Canva or similar design platforms will be advantageous Valid driver's licence and willingness to travel nationally, including occasional weekend work Passion for sport, fitness, consumer engagement, and premium brand development will be highly advantageous *ONLY SHORTLISTED CANDIDATES WILL BE CONTACTED*