Brand Development Manager

Brand Development Manager – Walkerswood (NY & NJ)
Purpose of the role: Looking for a hands‑on individual to drive sustainable and profitable growth of the Walkerswood portfolio across the New York and New Jersey markets. You will be responsible for broadening distribution in both traditional Caribbean channels and mainstream retail, while elevating the brand's image as the premier Caribbean seasoning and sauce authority for a diverse consumer base.

Compensation Structure: Starting at $70,000.00. Salary commensurate upon experience. Eligibility of earning a quarterly bonus based on performance targets. Expense reimbursement.

Key Responsibilities

Strategy, Planning, and Execution

Develop and implement trade marketing strategies tailored to the unique demographics of NY/NJ.

Design promotions that celebrate key cultural moments (e.g., West Indian Day Parade, BBQ season, Jerk Festivals).

Align with the Jamaican production team and master distributors to ensure consistent brand messaging.

Monitor and evaluate campaign success to refine future go‑to‑market efforts.

Channel & Territory Management

Identify growth opportunities in independent grocers, ethnic markets, and Big Box retailers (e.g., ShopRite, Stop & Shop, Wegmans).

Provide on‑the‑ground guidance to distributors to optimize product placement (securing eye‑level shelf space and secondary displays).

Build long‑term partnerships with key regional trade partners and specialty food retailers.

Data Analysis and Reporting

Track regional sales performance to measure the ROI of field marketing and tasting events.

Conduct competitor analysis within the Hot Sauce and Global Spice categories to identify gaps.

Provide regular insights to management regarding NY/NJ market trends and consumer feedback.

Budget & Resource Management

Manage the regional trade marketing budget with a focus on cost‑efficiency and high‑impact local activations.

Prioritize resource allocation for high‑volume accounts and high‑traffic seasonal campaigns.

Culinary Training and Communication

Educate sales teams and retail partners on the Walkerswood heritage, product usage (beyond just jerk chicken), and heat profiles.

Serve as the primary liaison between the US Master Franchise and local boots‑on‑the‑ground sales teams.

Events, Samplings, and Tradeshows

Coordinate and execute high‑energy consumer sampling programs at retail locations and food festivals.

Represent the brand at regional trade shows (e.g., Summer Fancy Food Show in NYC).

Relationship Management & Brand Advocacy

Maintain strong relationships with the Caribbean‑interest distributor network.

Act as a Brand Ambassador, embodying the authentic, vibrant spirit of Walkerswood in all professional interactions.

Compliance and Standards

Ensure all localized marketing materials comply with global brand guidelines and US labeling/legal requirements.

Conduct frequent field audits to ensure product freshness and display quality.

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