Job Title
Senior Brand Manager – RibenaName: Rachel Harris

Company: GlaxoSmithKline

Professional Qualification(s):
9 GCSE’s, 4 A levels and BSc
Degree studied at
Plymouth UniversityMy career so far…
From September 1995 to April 1999 I was on the Boots graduate training scheme. During this I completed a series of placements in buying, sales and brand management.

Since April 1999 I have worked for SmithKline Beecham, now GlaxoSmithKline, as a brand manager.

What does your job involve in a typical day? 
I have to develop the annual strategic plan for Ribena. This involves the ongoing development of advertising and direct mail promotions for Ribena.

I may have to check with New Product Development and manufacturing functions for launch dates and how the factory is progressing on output.

I will often have a meeting with the customer marketing department on the direction of promotions – who to target, what form of promotion or advertising to use etc.

New ideas have to have their incremental budget signed off, which will involve me presenting to senior management

What do you like most about your job?
I like the fact that marketing is a centre point for many activities and I can get involved with a variety of people and departments.

What skills are required in your job?
Project management plays a big part in this job, with the ability to juggle lots of projects simultaneously. I also need good leadership and influencing skills as well as a passion for the brand.

How many people work for you?
None

What is your advice to people looking for a career in the food and grocery industry?
Don’t look any further!