Summary
Overview
Work History
Education
Skills
Timeline
Hi, I’m

Lesedi Thebe

Trade Marketing Specialist
Sandton,Gauteng
Lesedi Thebe

Summary

Dynamic Marketing Specialist with a proven track record at Kellanova, excelling in product launches and pricing strategy. Leveraged data analytics to optimize campaigns, achieving significant revenue growth. Adept at fostering teamwork and collaboration, I drive impactful marketing communications that enhance brand visibility and customer engagement.

Trade marketing professional with solid experience in developing and executing effective marketing strategies. Known for strong focus on team collaboration and delivering measurable results. Proficient in market analysis, campaign management, and brand positioning. Adaptable and dependable, able to thrive in dynamic environments. Knowledgeable brand management and trade marketing specialist with comprehensive background in trade marketing. Proven track record of driving brand visibility and executing successful in-store promotions. Demonstrated expertise in market analysis and strategic planning and brand innovation.

Overview

4
years of professional experience

Work History

Kellanova (Previously Known as Kellogg)
Johannesburg

Pringles Trade Marketing Specialist
02.2023 - Current

Job overview

  • Enhanced brand visibility by designing and executing trade marketing campaigns for key product lines.
  • Enhanced overall efficiency by streamlining workflows within the trade marketing department, resulting in reduced lead times for campaign execution.
  • Improved customer satisfaction with targeted training programs for retail staff on product features and benefits.
  • Boosted revenue, optimizing pricing strategies based on market research and competitor analysis, through the Pringles Biggest Chip Campaign and the Pringles x Fanta Campaign.
  • Collaborated with the merchandising team on creating differentiated in-store experiences through unique merchandising and collateral opportunities. Through the Brand Ambassador Programme.
  • Measured marketing program effectiveness via regular monitoring of KPIs through the Pringles Brand Ambassador program.
  • Fostered collaborative relationships between sales team members and key account managers to align efforts toward shared objectives in driving business growth.
  • Managed and motivated a team of five trade marketing executives.
  • Monitored and evaluated three programs and activities to measure effectiveness, and recommend improvements.
  • Used Tableau, SAP, Nielsen, Data Orbis, and Skynamo, broker reports, and local market economic factors to monitor competitive tracking.
  • Conducted primary and secondary research to better understand customer needs and behaviors.
  • Used various market research tools and techniques to gather, analyze, and interpret data through Nielsen Discover, Data Orbis, and Tableau.
  • Implemented and supervised market research projects from start to finish with focus groups, surveys and interviews.
  • Devised data visualization dashboards to make complex data more accessible to stakeholders.
  • Established and managed relationships with external data providers and research vendors.
  • Tracked key metrics and developed spreadsheets and data models.
  • Collaborated with cross-functional teams to develop and implement market research strategies.
  • Analyzed data to uncover insights and identify key opportunities to inform strategic decisions.
  • Used various market research tools and techniques to gather, analyze and interpret data.
  • Created and distributed surveys for data collection and analysis.
  • Collected and analyzed data from variety of sources to create detailed market research reports for top-level decision makers.
  • Managed campaigns for various clients that consistently exceeded sales goals.
  • Tracked key performance indicators to measure success of campaigns.
  • Developed questionnaires and facilitated focus group discussions.
  • Utilized specialized software to capture and process data.
  • Assembled reports and presentations to share insights and recommendations with stakeholders.
  • Wrote engaging and successful marketing, advertising, and website copy.
  • Brand management of the salty snacks and wholesome snacks portfolio.
  • Developing a chassis for the project timeline to ensure an efficient and timely route to market.
  • Cross-functional management of key players in the project across the organization.
  • Developing the business case with the finance business partner.
  • Developing and working cross-functionally with the co-manufacturer to develop the product, pricing, and pack architecture.
  • Working with the RGM team to ensure the right product price architecture without greatly impacting the business in terms of packing write-off costs.
  • Briefing design agencies to ensure seamless pack designs that will attract future and existing Kellogg shoppers and consumers.
  • Working together with the product R&D team to create a one-bite wow food that is packed with real ingredients and a better-for-you option for consumers.
  • Planning and executing marketing initiatives to support the launch of the NPDs, which comprise a smaller and larger pack size suitable for each retailer.
  • Conducting monthly updates during the monthly portfolio product review, ensuring that the products are launched at the right gross profit level of 35% GP NSV per KG.
  • Briefing BTL the agencies to ensure that the product has visibility in preparation for the go-to-market.
  • Working alongside the respective supply chain teams, both internally and externally, in the implementation of timely run-in and run-out plans for current SKUs, which involve cost-saving initiatives and effective demand plans for respective retailers.
  • Drafting marketing and sales strategies to ensure a profitable growth of 5% increase in volume and value growth within the granola bar and kids' segment, with the support of the finance business partner.
  • Planning, implementing, and leading the process of briefing brand design agencies to ensure consistent messaging of Kellogg products.
  • Creating and planning briefs for brand marketing agencies to provide trade kits and listing documents for each channel, ensuring seamless selling to the respective retail channels.
  • Working alongside the sales and RGM team to ensure the route to market in terms of pricing and promotion.
  • Briefing the executive committee and consulting the business in terms of brand plans and building the business case in monthly cadences, such as portfolio management review and commercial readiness.
  • Briefing R&D teams in terms of packing BOP information, front-of-pack claims, and overall look and feel.
  • Chairing bi-weekly meetings with cross-functional teams by updating project timelines to track and manage the progress of the project.
  • Budget management of R16 million for marketing support, and project and product development.
  • Raising any costs pertaining to the project through the planning of marketing support initiatives.
  • Tracking growth from a GP and gross margin perspective, in terms of sales per retail channel.
  • Ensuring effective working relationships and cross-functional alignment of the category marketing plans with the Regional Category Team, Sales (Category Planning & KAM), Consumer Insights, Customer Supply and Logistics, Finance, and agency leadership to ensure effective market brand activation by brand plans, activation strategy, schedule, and calendar.
  • Streamlined inventory management, implementing efficient ordering processes to minimize stockouts and overstock situations.
  • Raised brand awareness by organizing impactful trade shows, exhibitions, and consumer events.
  • Delivered measurable results in sales uplifts through customized loyalty programs designed to increase retailer engagement with the brand.
  • Developed engaging sales tools and collateral materials to support retailer efforts in promoting the brand and driving consumer interest.
  • Created a strong competitive advantage by analyzing market trends and developing tailored trade marketing plans for each region or channel segment.
  • Generated significant cost savings by negotiating better terms with suppliers for point-of-sale materials and merchandise items.
  • Gathered valuable market insights through regular retail audits, enabling informed decision-making on promotional strategies.
  • Implemented effective merchandising guidelines, ensuring consistent brand presentation across all retail touchpoints.
  • Increased sales volume with innovative in-store promotions and strategic product displays.
  • Strengthened retailer trust through transparent communication practices that provided timely updates on ongoing initiatives and ensured alignment with expectations.
  • Maximized return on investment with data-driven decisions on budget allocation for various trade marketing activities.

Kellanova
Johannesburg

Corporate Affairs Assistant
12.2021 - 02.2023

Job overview

  • Helped coordinate logistics for media appearances, ensuring smooth execution of promotional efforts.
  • Improved stakeholder relations by assisting in the organization of community outreach programs and events.
  • Collaborated with the legal team to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements in all public communications.
  • Contributed to the development of corporate messaging and positioning, ensuring consistency across all platforms.
  • Enhanced corporate communication by drafting press releases and internal announcements.
  • Provided administrative support, streamlining processes and boosting departmental efficiency.
  • Supported event planning for company-wide initiatives, fostering employee engagement and collaboration.
  • Managed an internal database of media contacts, maintaining accuracy and promoting efficient communication practices.
  • Tracked performance metrics for communication campaigns, identifying areas for improvement and recommending adjustments as needed.
  • Assisted in creating visually engaging presentations for senior leadership meetings and external conferences.
  • Conducted quality assurance and performance audits.
  • Conducted research on industry trends, providing valuable insights for strategic decision making.
  • Gathered and examined information from multiple sources.
  • Supported executive leadership by preparing briefing materials ahead of interviews or speaking engagements.
  • Developed strong relationships with key industry influencers through networking events and proactive outreach efforts.
  • Assisted with content creation for company newsletters, highlighting employee achievements and important updates.
  • Formulated and generated analysis related to assigned research topics.
  • Participated in brainstorming sessions for creative projects, contributing fresh ideas to help shape compelling content.
  • Supported crisis management efforts by closely monitoring news coverage and helping develop appropriate response strategies.
  • Communicated messages, thoughts and ideas.
  • Aided in the creation of investor relations materials, ensuring accurate representation of company performance and strategy.
  • Assisted in managing social media accounts to increase brand visibility and online presence.
  • Facilitated timely responses to media inquiries by compiling relevant information from subject matter experts.
  • Coordinated with various departments to gather information for annual reports and other corporate publications.
  • Thought strategically to support key business decisions.
  • Translated information for lay people and experts.
  • Collaborated in team-based environment across different functional groups.
  • Managed media relations for organizations to produce successful results.
  • Conducted media relations and responded to media requests for information.
  • Supported public relations managers with writing, researching and preparation of materials
  • Built and maintained positive relationships with public by utilizing strategic plans.
  • Used various social media platforms for media and blogger outreach.
  • Engaged in professional networking to maintain strong relationships with communications and media professionals to drive partnerships and effective dissemination of mass communications.
  • Collaborated with internal and external stakeholders to identify key messages and create compelling content for press releases and other materials.
  • Developed and implemented social media strategy to increase engagement and reach new audiences.
  • Monitored media coverage and produced detailed reports to analyze impact of PR efforts.
  • Facilitated press conferences and other outreach events to raise visibility of organization.
  • Produced and distributed brochures, newsletters and press kits.
  • Studied objectives, promotional policies or needs of organizations to develop public relations strategies influencing public opinion or promoting ideas.
  • Developed comprehensive media outreach plan to increase visibility of organization in local, regional and national markets.
  • Drafted press releases detailing relevant newsworthy information and supporting brand image, and worked with news media to spread positions.
  • Prepared or edited organizational publications such as employee newsletters or stockholder reports for internal or external audiences.
  • Created and executed targeted PR campaigns to raise awareness of organization and initiatives.
  • Increased revenues and supported business goals by developing public relations strategies and campaigns.
  • Coordinated media interviews with organization staff, board members and volunteers.
  • Cultivated strong relationships with media representatives to secure widespread coverage and feature stories.
  • Wrote press releases and other materials utilizing SEO practices.
  • Managed a R30million corporate communications and donations budget.

Location Bank
Parkmore

Local SEO Technical Specialist
07.2021 - 12.2021

Job overview

  • Managed multiple high-priority projects simultaneously, consistently meeting deadlines while maintaining attention to detail.
  • Provided exceptional customer support, resolving complex technical issues with effective communication skills.
  • Maintained comprehensive documentation of technical processes, facilitating knowledge sharing among team members.
  • Trained junior technicians on industry best practices and company-specific procedures, fostering a culture of continuous learning and professional growth.
  • Completed troubleshooting and diagnostics on company resources.
  • Mentored fellow team members in advanced technical concepts, fostering a collaborative work environment where ideas were freely exchanged.
  • Streamlined technical workflows for enhanced productivity through the implementation of automation tools.
  • Reduced downtime by proactively identifying potential network problems and implementing corrective measures.
  • Guided staff technology use, assisting with troubleshooting and quality control to streamline operations.
  • Enhanced data security, implementing rigorous backup procedures and disaster recovery plans.
  • Implemented robust cybersecurity measures to protect sensitive data and prevent unauthorized access.
  • Assessed business requirements to create focused solutions.
  • Developed technical requirement documentation for new software products.
  • Authored best practices documentation for use in new personnel onboarding processes.
  • Improved systems with addition of new features and infrastructure.
  • Troubleshot systems comprised of security alarms and Internet connectivity.
  • Developed and strengthened prototype designs for use by product teams and clients.
  • Troubleshot and resolved mechanical and electrical issues in vehicles.
  • Documented design development and progress in accordance with company procedures and ISO standards.
  • Delivered polished presentations detailing technical specifications and benefits of new systems and components.
  • Researched and developed new technologies for use in automotive applications.
  • Analyzed and evaluated customer feedback to improve vehicle design and performance.
  • Created vehicles that use lighter materials such as aluminum, magnesium alloy or plastic to improve fuel efficiency.
  • Conducted root cause analysis of vehicle systems to locate and correct problems.
  • Performed extensive bench and vehicle testing of parts in order to optimize designs.
  • Calibrated vehicle systems, control algorithms and safety software systems.
  • Developed and integrated new technologies into existing automotive systems.
  • Researched and developed new concepts in field of automotive engineering.
  • Completed detailed analysis of vehicle system performance data and optimized designs based on feedback.

Education

IIE Vega School
Randburg

Bachelor of Arts from Honours in Strategic Brand Communications
04.2001

University Overview

Head Of Social Committee

Class Representative

SRC Committee Member

IIE Varsity College
Sandton

Bachelor of Arts from Corporate Communications
04.2001

University Overview

Class Representative

Bright Star Award for achieving 78% aggregate for final year of undergraduate degree.

Skills

Timeline

Pringles Trade Marketing Specialist

Kellanova (Previously Known as Kellogg)
02.2023 - Current

Corporate Affairs Assistant

Kellanova
12.2021 - 02.2023

Local SEO Technical Specialist

Location Bank
07.2021 - 12.2021

IIE Vega School

Bachelor of Arts from Honours in Strategic Brand Communications
04.2001

IIE Varsity College

Bachelor of Arts from Corporate Communications
04.2001
Lesedi ThebeTrade Marketing Specialist