What does a Brand Manager do?
Brand managers are responsible for developing brand strategies, promoting brand growth and expansion, implementing brand plans, and using a variety of data to drive volume and profitability. In their essence, brand managers are focused on achieving brand business objectives in the short and long term.
Most brand managers have a Bachelor's degree in marketing and demonstrate deep knowledge about market research, analytics, and consumer behavior. The best brand managers have strong reserach skills and work well in cross-functional environments.
- Identify research needs, execute research studies and projects, and analyze research in order to identify opportunities
- Stay current on market trends and competitive activity
- Establish and maintain brand budgets
- Define and manage the brand communication strategy using a variety of media
- Own the development and messaging of the brand narrative
- Create, execute, and manage marketing programs and campaigns
- Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business, or related field. MBA preferred.
- 3-5 years of experience in brand management, brand marketing, or marketing management
- Proven ability to work cross-functionally
- Experience managing a brand across multiple markets
- Creative thinker and problem solver
- Strong communication skills
- Project management experience, with a solid understanding of project management principles and techniques
- Strategic thinker able to identify long-term opportunities and trends
How much does a Brand Manager make?
Base Pay
Additional Pay
$74,614
/ yrBrand Manager Career Path
Learn how to become a Brand Manager, what skills and education you need to succeed, and what level of pay to expect at each step on your career path.
Years of Experience Distribution
Brand Manager Insights
Robert Bosch Tool Corporation“Good health coverage (not the best I have ever had but far better than average).”
Ashley Furniture Homestore“Everything about this job was miserable and I'm glad I don't work there anymore.”
Old Navy“Majority of the people I worked with I really liked and I’ve become close with.”
Old Navy“I kept this job for years and it was a good part time job for me.”
Spontaneous Order“Unexperienced management that takes personal problems to work and will take this out on employees.”
Red Bull“Was a great role to have as a student with flexible hours and understanding from supervisors.”
Kovai.co“6. Another personal pro for me is my manager is super cool to work with :)”
My Amazon Guy “This is the first job I've had that doesn't feel like a "job" because I love what I do and everyone is great.”
Frequently asked questions about the role and responsibilities of brand managers
A brand manager creates and manages the branding strategy for a company. They focus on the target market of the products or services offered and maintain brand consistency and integrity across all initiatives. A typical day of a brand manager often includes performing research on target markets, assessing the needs of their audience, and working on a brand strategy.
Yes, becoming a brand manager is a good opportunity for those who enjoy fast-paced work. Brand managers can often achieve a good work-life balance as they generally work during traditional business hours while earning a high salary. One of the advantages of being a brand manager is working with a supportive team in a positive atmosphere.
The average salary for a brand manager is $74,614 per year. The experience and skills of the candidate and the size of the company play a role in the salary potential. Moving up to a higher role related to brand management, such as brand director, can also increase the earning potential.
Just like any other job, working as a brand manager has its downsides. This role involves adapting and learning through trial and error, as well as maintaining a long-term vision for the brand and organization. Other challenges of being a brand manager include working under pressure and juggling the needs of multiple clients.