Brand Executive - Innovation at Kenya Wine Agencies Limited (KWAL)

Reference #    HR/COM/BEI 2021

Introduction    

The purpose of this role is to support the Innovations Manager in managing innovation and renovation projects in line with KWAL’s innovation ambition.

Specification    

1. Area 1: Product Innovation Management
   1. In collaboration with the Innovations Manager, drive NPD project execution for allocated projects end-to-end from initiation to commercialization
   2. Own and manage the innovation case documents for new to world brands and range extensions of existing brands
   3. Implement and execute project in line with innovation framework governance, project management methodology and tools to ensure compliance
   4. Closely monitor the project timelines and escalate any risks that may affect project launch timelines
   5. Drive clarity of all allocated projects and ensure alignment with stakeholders on expected project outcomes
   6. Work cross functionally to ensure all requirements in terms of resources, timing and budget are incorporated in the projects plan
   7. Integrate all relevant consumer insights throughout the gate process to support new propositions
   8. Continuously incorporate new learnings into the KWAL innovation process
2. Area 2: NPD project execution
   1. Work closely with the Innovations Manager to measure, record and evaluate project performance against the project baselines and outcomes and take corrective action as applicable
   2. Effectively and accurately report and communicate project status, progress, risks, etc. to relevant stakeholders
   3. Support the brands team in the commercialization of new brands
   4. Share performance reports with key stakeholders bi monthly clearly highlighting the key performance drivers and interventions required to deliver target
   5. Use projects management tools to ensure that projects are launched on time, in full (OTIF) and within budget
   6. Use the escalation matrix to call out any risks (both current and potential) and mitigate or elevate for resolution, support the innovations manage in leading the innovation projects and detailed status meeting that occurs on a weekly basis. Record and minutes actions during the stage gate forum
   7. Provide coordination and support in terms of development and testing of product and product launch planning
   8. Coordinate with planning for effective PIPO management as per approved plan for all launches.
   9. Share project insights with relevant stakeholders to drive for actionable outcomes and facilitate business decision making
3. Area 3: Cross-functional leadership
   1. Drive cross functional collaboration to unlock internal synergies and achieve project success
   2. Identify and establish stakeholder partnerships for successful project execution
   3. Influence & inspire the cross-functional project team to deliver the assigned projects in support of the overall business ambition

Requirements    

1. A Bachelor’s degree in Marketing or a business-related field.
2. Membership to a relevant professional body will be an added advantage.
3. At least 3 years’ experience in FMCG, with 2 years managing new product launches
4. Experience in Project management and commercialization of new products