Media Promotions Planner (IPS)

MAJOR JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Strategically develop, implement and maintain digital and traditional media promotional plans for multiple consumer product goods and other brands from start to finish.
2. Conduct research and keep up-to-date on all emerging technologies and trends in digital promotions media.  Be able to convey knowledge to internal associates and Clients. 
3. Develop solid client and vendor relationships. Consult and understand Client objectives and goals, and be able to recommend solutions.
   • Monitor Client's programs and be able to discuss successes and potential failures. 
   • Recommend new strategies to meet Clients objectives and goals.  Be able to give an expert interpretation of data contained in Company reports and processes, provides improvement recommendations to clients.
   • Work closely with Clients to troubleshoot and problem solve with effective promotional media campaigns and/or other promotional services.
   • Perform marketing analysis and make recommendations.
   • Receive and respond to Client's daily requests and inquiries.
   • Initiate both standard and customized letters to Clients, retailers, or others regarding Client related issues.
   • Work with other departments to resolve Client issues.  Initiate follow-up on requests to internal departments to correct or adjust current programs, data, reports, etc. which are controlled by and originate from their respective areas.
   • Initiate communication with account teams regarding issues related to assigned Clients.
   • Develop and execute account plans with the objective of maintaining total Client satisfaction.
   • Responsible for oral and written communication on Client-related issues to resolve issues, develop procedures and establish guidelines.  Draft detailed external correspondence to Clients, retailer, or others regarding Client-related issues, analyses, and follow-up.  Initiate telephone calls and conference calls to clients to clearly communicate information.
4. Work closely with manager and other team members, perform special projects as required to maintain assigned accounts (for example, client set-up, data collection projects, research projects).  Work actively to become an expert on company systems and services, team functions, industry trends, system use and client operations issues.
   • May assist with on the job training of new associates.
   • Work independently to gain skill sets and knowledge needed.
   • Keep abreast of industry, competition and marketing/promotional trends.
   • Collaborate to develop appropriate client strategies.
5. Negotiate legal contracts with vendors and clients.
   • Strong ability to buy/negotiate all media with special emphasis on digital venues and promotional campaigns.
   • Consult with Client representatives by telephone regarding pricing terms and Company Services.
6. Work with account teams to help promote promotional services and selling strategies.
   • Educate new clients and client contacts on couponing, Company reports and basic knowledge of the Company.
   • Determine appropriate reports to be used for ad hoc Client requests.
7. Develop Client presentations including performing effective sales presentations:
   • Structure presentations to meet the prospect's objectives.
   • Ensure Inmar's and prospects' objectives are met.
   • Answer questions and address issues the prospect may have about Inmar or promotional vehicles.
   • Provide timely follow-up on action items developed during the presentation.
8. Understand and articulate the mechanics of promotional effectiveness and the optimization process.
9. Assist in the development and implementation of annual marketing plans as requested.
10. Meet Client budget objectives.
11. Meet all assigned deadlines.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Strong negotiating skills and have ability to close media deals.
• Hands on experience with interactive media, online, digital and mobile with the ability to optimize placement / build affiliation programs.  Proven background in planning and buying digital campaigns and proving the accountability and return of online media.
• Knowledge of ad networks and FSI purchasing is a plus.
• Strong communication skills to work with internal and external contacts.
• Accuracy, organizational ability and detail oriented approach.
• Ability to think creatively.
• Possess strong computer skills (i.e., Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, Word and Outlook).
• Strategic thinker including evaluation of digital trends and ability to be up-to-date with all emerging technologies.
• Ability to develop, maintain client and media owner relationships, and a good aptitude for nurturing the development of a brand, marketing, and executive management relationships.
• Proven online specialist who understands the principles of offline channels and how they can complement each other.
• Understands sales promotions as a marketing tool, from a CPG/Brand-centered perspective, particularly coupon promotions.
• Well versed in a variety of coupon vehicles / methods, particularly newer methods (digital, social media, etc.):
  • Ability to work effectively with digital graphics and understand artwork requirements.
  • Understands strategic and tactical uses of coupons.
  • Understands advantages and limitations of promotion vehicles to ensure effective match of brand needs with the appropriate vehicle(s).
• Understands how to analyze and segment the US Market place for promotion design and planning with regard to key retailers; obtaining/applying shopper market profiles; and media coverage options.
• Ability to manage media buying process from pre-sales through actual execution/placement to follow up.
• Thrives in fast-pace and deadline sensitive work environment.
• Understands and can successfully operate under complex agreements; changing contacts and roles; and detailed administrative tasks.
• Ability to be motivated to take a proactive stance to grow and enable an evolving marketplace using a flexible and creative approach to matching buyers (brands) to a network of sellers (publishers).
• Willingness and ability to effectively network and promote promotional media buying services internally (cross selling) and externally (prospective vendors and clients).
• Ability to educate and foster adoption of new media and existing and evolving service options.
• Ability to project enthusiasm and excitement; be highly inquisitive and investigative in new media methods such as digital promotions.

REQUIREMENTS

Ability to:

• Travel independently (10 to 15%).
• Work flexible hours and some overtime (including after hours accessibility when necessary).
• Be organized, detail-oriented and a multi-tasker.
• Communicate effectively (written and verbal communication skills).
• 'Think on your feet', assimilate and synthesize information and adjust communication and approaches accordingly.
• Continue learning about the evolving media landscape, including new players and functionality.
• Be assertive and pleasantly persistent.
• Be highly motivated to grow the market place and business.
• Partner with all players in the process and maintain neutrality position.

EDUCATION

Two or more years of experience in a client-facing role in promotions or marketing services, advertising, media buying, or sales with an agency, consumer packaged goods manufacturer, retailer or media company / publisher AND a Bachelor's degree from a four-year college or university in business or marketing; or an equivalent combination of training and experience.