Product and Insights Manager

The Product and Insights Manager supports the development of and oversees the promotional and product strategy across the Nando’s menu portfolio by using sound data analysis, consumer insights and commercial acumen. The role requires a strategic thinker with the ability to use different points of reference to inform business decisions.

BCom Degree or equivalent NQF Level 6 qualification (Marketing)

Driver’s License and own vehicle

5 - 8 years’ experience in marketing or commercial product environment with particular experience in data analysis

1 - 2 years’ experience in a middle management role

Knowledge

• Knowledge of data analysis and research (Advanced)
• Knowledge of product management and costing (Advanced)
• Knowledge of computer applications (Advanced)
• Knowledge of project management (Advanced)
• Microsoft Office skills (Intermediate)

Product Management

• Work closely with cross-functional stakeholders to develop and execute a consumer segment and menu category strategy and oversee execution thereof
• Manage activities that assist with driving the key objectives of the annual marketing calendar, including promotions, new product development or any activities within the consumer segments or menu categories
• Work with BI and Finance to develop sound commercial and customer business cases in support of key marketing initiatives
• Use key industry dynamics, trends, and internal data to define the core menu mix and strategy for menu categories and to achieve key financial and brand metrics
• Review and analyse marketing pricing conditions and behaviours to develop pricing strategies that fit within the overall national pricing objectives
• Work with cross functional teams to manage pricing process in order to achieve the GP margins and MPI expectations of the business
• Work with agencies and internal teams to accurately forecast volumes for seasonal campaigns and new product development

Data analysis and insights

• Analyse micro and macro business and competitor environment on an ongoing basis to monitor the effectiveness of all relevant initiatives
• Use internal and external data sources (primary and secondary sources) to identify key consumer insights to strengthen the development and execution of consumer segment and menu category
• Analyse sales results to ensure that resources are focused on achieving promotional objectives
• Work closely with Food Innovation to identify consumer trends that lead to innovation pipeline development
• Identify opportunities and challenges with regards to growing the overall menu portfolio and work collaboratively with cross-functional teams to quantify, resolve or maximise growth by developing the appropriate action plans
• Research and analyse current and past product promotional initiative results to capture best practice and foster continuous improvement

Project Management

• Work closely with the entire cross-functional team to effectively develop and launch new products or promotions
• Plan, execute and manage projects to support the broader marketing and business strategy
• Provide ongoing feedback to cross functional teams in terms of process, barriers, scope changes as well as internal and external partner concerns
• Work with stakeholders to establish viability of concepts and ideas from a consumer perspective
• Oversee the implementation of new products within the national system including all trials

Research Management

• Manage delivery of research output with agency partners
• Support the development of an annual insights plan that will support the marketing plan and needs thereof
• Identify research needs to support the growth strategy of the business
• Use research inputs to support the marketing plan through insights on product, pricing, place and promotion
• Regular reporting of key research outputs to marketing team

Reporting, Budget, and Financial Management

• Support development of product and research budgets
• Monitor adherence to project budgets and propose cost-saving measures where appropriate