Brand Activation Associate

JOB TITLE: Brand Activation Associate — Fisher’s Island (Gallo) / Ayatana XP  

REPORTS TO: AXP Project Manager, Gallo Sales Manager  ABOUT AYATANA XP: Ayatana XP strategically executes retail sampling demos for your favorite brands on a national scale every single day. Our diverse team of brand ambassadors help build brand awareness for buzzy celebrity brands, challenger brands just making a splash on the scene and even convince the loyalists of consumers to shake it up and try something new.

SUMMARY: Are you passionate about bringing a refreshing taste of summer to new markets? Join us as we expand Fishers Island Lemonade into Chicago! We are seeking an energetic and dynamic individual to join our team as our Brand Activation Manager for the summer season. The Brand Activation Manager will manage the activities and budget goals set by Gallo Sales & Marketing teams to effectively build the brand amongst target audiences, achieve growth, and perform against KPI’s. 

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES include but are not limited to the following: 

Key Accountabilities: 

• Conduct engaging sampling demos, prioritizing 80% off-premise and 20% on-premise activations. 

• Identify cultural moments aligning with brand ethos and optimize product placement during key account visits. 

• Execute 10-15 brand-promoting events yearly, shaping brand communication. 

• Seed cultural moments and events to authentically integrate Fishers Island Lemonade into local communities. 

• Direct consumer programs in Illinois, managing marketing and event sponsorships. 

• Engage thousands of consumers annually, building brand loyalty. 

• Manage event sponsorships, marketing, and partnerships to drive sales volume. 

• Allocate budget for local sponsorships and donations. 

• Ensure sponsorships are aligned to brand guidelines 

On-Premise Account Management 

Key Accountabilities: 

• Accompany sales reps on ride-alongs to boost sales and visibility. 

• Act as primary contact for top 20 accounts, fostering loyalty and visibility. 

• Visit key accounts weekly, host guests, and utilize budget for brand-enhancing experiences. 

• Communicate account needs to optimize performance. 

• Educate distributor personnel on brand, products, and events, supporting sales teams. 

• Ensure territory management and regulatory compliance. 

Off-Premise Account Management 

Key Accountabilities: 

• Collaborate with sales team and wholesalers for effective merchandising. 

• Communicate account needs to optimize performance. 

• Cultivate relationships with top retail accounts. 

• Coordinate store demos, oversee brand-sponsored events, and develop POS opportunities. 

• Educate distributor personnel on brand, products, and events, supporting sales teams. 

• Ensure territory management and regulatory compliance. 

QUALIFICATIONS & REQUIREMENTS:

• Proven experience in brand activation, event management, or sales within the beverage industry.  

• Preference will be given to candidates with experience working in a distributor, particularly those with a background in beer distribution.  

• Bartenders will be considered who have interacted regularly with distributor personnel, managed orders from distributors, and have a track record of crafting cocktails in high-volume establishments. 

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with diverse stakeholders. 

• Self-motivated and results-driven, with a passion for driving brand awareness and sales growth. 

• Ability to prioritize and juggle many tasks as well as work within prescribed timelines and deadlines. 

• Adept at selling and interacting with diverse groups of people. 

• Strong written, verbal and public speaking skills. 

• Strong budget management skills. 

• Proficient in Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Outlook and Web-based reporting tools  

• Flexibility to work evenings and weekends as needed during peak activation periods. 

• Must own or have reliable access to a personal vehicle through ownership or lease agreement AND have current auto insurance coverage that meets state minimum requirements. 

• Valid driver’s license with a driving record in good standing. Maintaining a good driving record (as defined by the organization) is a condition of employment. 

• Position contingent upon successful completion of background check. 

• A genuine enthusiasm for our brand and mission to deliver a taste of summer wherever we go! 

COMPENSATION: Competitive 1099 compensation commensurate with experience.