Senior Brand Innovation Manager Job Vacancy in Boditi, Ethiopia – Beverage & Brewing

Job Description

Position: Senior Brand Innovation Manager

Company: Heineken Ethiopia

Location: Boditi, Ethiopia

Experience: 7+ years

Education: Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business Administration, or related field

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Beverage & Brewing

Department: Marketing

Salary: SSP 250,000 – 350,000 per annum

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Heineken Ethiopia, a subsidiary of the global brewing leader Heineken N.V., has been a cornerstone of the Ethiopian beverage market for over two decades. With a portfolio that includes iconic beer brands and a commitment to responsible drinking, the company focuses on sustainable growth, community engagement, and innovative product development. Operating across major Ethiopian cities, Heineken Ethiopia leverages international expertise while embracing local culture, making it a prime employer for professionals seeking dynamic career opportunities in Ethiopia. As part of its expansion strategy, the company is investing heavily in brand differentiation, digital engagement, and consumer‑centric product innovation, creating a fertile environment for forward‑thinking marketers.

The organization prides itself on a collaborative workplace that values diversity, creativity, and continuous learning. Its corporate social responsibility initiatives span water conservation, responsible consumption campaigns, and youth empowerment programs, aligning business objectives with societal impact. By joining Heineken Ethiopia, candidates become part of a global network that prioritizes employee development, ethical standards, and a shared passion for delivering premium experiences to consumers across the nation.

Job Overview

The Senior Brand Innovation Manager will lead the development and execution of breakthrough brand strategies that resonate with Ethiopian consumers and elevate Heineken’s market position. Reporting to the Head of Marketing, the role involves deep market insight, cross‑functional collaboration, and the ability to translate consumer trends into compelling brand experiences across multiple touchpoints, including packaging, digital media, events, and on‑trade activations.

This pivotal position will also be responsible for steering the brand’s sustainability narrative, ensuring that all innovation initiatives align with Heineken’s global commitments to environmental stewardship and responsible drinking. The manager will work closely with product development, sales, and supply chain teams to launch new products and limited‑edition campaigns that drive growth and reinforce brand loyalty. For more information about Heineken Ethiopia’s vision and career opportunities, visit https://ethiopiajobssearch.com/.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a 3‑year brand innovation roadmap aligned with business objectives and consumer insights.
• Lead the ideation, testing, and rollout of new product concepts, packaging designs, and experiential marketing campaigns.
• Collaborate with market research teams to analyze consumer behavior, cultural trends, and competitive landscapes across Ethiopia.
• Manage cross‑functional project teams, ensuring timely delivery and budget adherence for all brand initiatives.
• Integrate sustainability and responsible drinking principles into all brand communications and product launches.
• Monitor brand performance metrics, providing regular reports to senior leadership and recommending course corrections.
• Mentor and coach junior marketing staff, fostering a culture of creativity and data‑driven decision making.

Required Skills

• Strategic thinking with a proven ability to translate insights into actionable brand strategies.
• Excellent communication and storytelling skills, both written and verbal.
• Strong project management capabilities, including budget management and stakeholder coordination.
• Deep understanding of the Ethiopian beverage market, consumer trends, and regulatory environment.
• Proficiency with digital marketing tools, analytics platforms, and design software.
• Leadership qualities that inspire teamwork, innovation, and accountability.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business Administration, Communications, or a related discipline is required. A Master’s degree or relevant professional certifications (e.g., CIM, MBA) are considered an asset.

Experience

Minimum of seven years of progressive experience in brand management, product innovation, or marketing within the FMCG or beverage sector. Prior leadership experience managing multidisciplinary teams and large‑scale campaigns is essential.

Salary

The compensation package ranges from SSP 250,000 to 350,000 annually, commensurate with experience and qualifications. The package includes performance‑based bonuses and other statutory benefits.

Benefits

• Health insurance covering employee and dependents.
• Retirement savings plan.
• Annual performance bonus.
• Company‑paid professional development and certification courses.
• Employee discount program for Heineken products.

Training

• Onboarding program covering Heineken’s brand heritage, values, and operational processes.
• Continuous learning modules on digital marketing, data analytics, and sustainable branding.
• Leadership development workshops and mentorship pairing with senior executives.

Working Environment

The role is based in the modern Heineken Ethiopia office in Boditi, featuring an open‑plan layout, collaborative spaces, and state‑of‑the‑art meeting rooms. The company promotes a flexible work culture, encouraging a healthy work‑life balance while maintaining a vibrant, inclusive atmosphere that celebrates Ethiopian culture.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter outlining relevant experience through the online portal on the Heineken Ethiopia careers page. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview followed by an on‑site assessment.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Heineken Ethiopia is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, ethnicity, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to any protected characteristic.