Description:

Job Title: Associate Director Brand Management.

Department: Branding & Communication.

Location: Kothrud, Pune.

The Associate Director Brand Management will lead the development, implementation, and integration of strategic communication plans that advance the businesss brand identity in the market.

Key Accountability:

Strategic:

- Support in planning & execution of Marketing strategies.

Operational Responsibilities:

- Strategic Brand Development: Lead the formulation, implementation, and integration of comprehensive branding strategies that enhance the organization's brand identity and market presence.

- Marketing Collaboration: Partner with the marketing team to develop and execute marketing strategies aimed at building and strengthening relationships with target audiences, external partners, and key media outlets, thereby positively positioning the organization and its products in the marketplace.

- Market Analysis: Conduct thorough research to identify emerging trends, challenges, and opportunities affecting the organization or its products, providing insights that inform strategic decisions.

- Cross-Functional Strategy Execution: Collaborate with the Director and Management Teams across the organization to formulate and implement strategies and solutions addressing identified issues and opportunities.

Content Creation and Management:

- Content Development Oversight: Manage the creation of diverse content types, including newsletters, blogs, influencer collaborations, annual reports, and other marketing collateral, ensuring alignment with the organization's brand messaging and values.

- Digital Content and Social Media Management: Supervise all online content and communications, including website content and social media interactions, to maintain consistency with the organization's brand identity and messaging.

- Media Relations Materials: Coordinate with relevant stakeholders to prepare presentations, speeches, talking points, and other materials for external communications and media relations.

Communication Strategy and Guidance:

- Oversee daily communication activities and provide strategic counsel to the Marketing Team to ensure that all publications and communications positively impact the organization's brand and objectives.

Financial and Budget:

- Ensure the budget for your areas of function is utilized, optimized and tracked.

Collaborations:

- Develop and maintain collaborative relationships with all head of departments and various industry partners.

Academic:

- Promote the culture of positivity, collaboration, continuous improvement, and commitment to quality in all aspects of PR & Branding activities.

External Representation:

- Represent the organization on various professional bodies of repute, which is value adding, building relationships with the community, government agencies, society at large, and with ultimate objective of building organization's brand.

Strategic Leadership & Brand Management:

- Develop and implement comprehensive branding strategies that align with organization's mission and objectives.

- Collaborate with the Director and Management Teams to identify and address emerging challenges and opportunities related to brand positioning.

- Lead cross-functional teams to ensure cohesive brand messaging across all departments and platforms.

External Relations & Corporate Engagement:

- Advocate for the organization at regional and national levels, engaging with stakeholders to enhance the university's visibility and reputation.

- Foster relationships with external partners, media outlets, and industry leaders to promote collaborative opportunities and positive media coverage.

Content Creation & Communication:

- Oversee the creation of diverse content, including newsletters, blogs, annual reports, and marketing materials, ensuring consistency with the university's brand voice.

- Manage online content and social media interactions to maintain a dynamic and engaging digital presence.

- Coordinate the preparation of presentations, speeches, and other materials for external communications and media relations.

Team Development & Operational Excellence:

- Provide effective leadership by being actively involved in all programs and services, developing a broad and deep knowledge of all initiatives.

- Mentor and guide team members, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and continuous improvement.

Qualifications & Experience:

Education: Masters degree in business administration, Marketing, Law, Journalism, International Relations, Public Relations, or a related field.

Experience: 10 years to 15 years of progressive experience in branding, marketing, or public relations, with a proven track record of securing positive media coverage in complex business environments.

Preferred Sector: Experience in the education sector is advantageous, though exceptional talent from other industries will also be considered.

Personal Attributes:

- Strong commitment to organization's vision, ambitions, and values.

- Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to engage effectively with staff at all levels.

- Demonstrated ability to make informed and courageous decisions on challenging issues.

- Proven track record of respectful and effective partnership working across diverse staff groups.