Unilever Seeks Leader to Drive North American Marketing Transformation with Focus on AI and Automation
Unilever is seeking a dynamic leader to spearhead critical operations and innovation within its Global Marketing Services (GMS) division in North America, signaling a significant investment in data-driven marketing and operational efficiency. The role, as outlined in a recent company release, will focus on both optimizing existing services and pioneering new capabilities to fuel Unilever’s growth agenda.
Unilever’s Commitment to Purpose-Led Growth
Unilever, a global consumer goods giant reaching approximately 3.5 billion households daily, has long positioned itself as a purpose-led business. The company emphasizes innovation and a commitment to improving lives, stating, “We promote innovation, big and small, to make our business win and grow; and we believe in business as a force for good.” This commitment extends to its internal culture, fostering mentorship and a supportive environment for its employees.
Global Marketing Services: The Engine of Demand Generation
At the heart of Unilever’s ambition lies Global Marketing Services (GMS), described as the company’s “true engine for demand generation.” GMS functions as an integrator, breaking down silos between marketing, sales, and commercial operations to deliver operational excellence and consistency. The team concentrates on two key value streams: Innovation to Market (I2M), which accelerates the journey from concept to retail, and Engage to Convert (E2C), which focuses on converting consumer interest into sales through data-driven engagement.
“Our role is to provide the backbone for these processes, integrating technology, data, and operational support so our teams can deliver impact, not just activity,” according to the company.
The Role: A Dual Focus on Operations and Innovation
The position, based in North America, is uniquely structured around two interconnected responsibilities. The leader will oversee Hub Operations for GMS Service Delivery, governing performance and relationships across key services including:
- Artwork Excellence
- Consumer Engagement Centres (CEC)
- Innovation Project Management Office (PMO)
- Asset Management
- Product Data Management (PDM)
This aspect of the role demands a focus on operational excellence, continuous improvement, and strong partnerships with third-party providers. Simultaneously, the leader will champion Engage to Convert (E2C) Proof of Concepts, designing and scaling innovative pilots that integrate marketing and sales to create seamless consumer journeys.
Driving the E2C Agenda with AI and Automation
A core component of the E2C strategy is the adoption of automation and AI technologies to optimize marketing and sales processes. The role will involve shaping scalable models for demand generation and unlocking new growth opportunities through these technologies. This emphasis on cutting-edge technology underscores Unilever’s commitment to staying ahead in a rapidly evolving market.
“Championing the adoption of automation and AI technologies to optimize marketing and sales processes,” is a key responsibility, highlighting the strategic importance of these tools.
Key Accountabilities and Required Skills
The successful candidate will be responsible for leading a North America Performance Delivery Team, fostering a high-performance culture, and building strong relationships with stakeholders across various departments. Essential skills include:
- Deep marketing and/or sales expertise
- Proven leadership in cross-functional teams
- A passion for performance and accountability
- Strong integration and collaboration skills
- Excellent communication and influencing abilities
Qualifications and Experience
Candidates must possess significant experience in marketing and/or sales, demonstrating a track record of driving transformation. An “E2E function agnostic integrator (non silo mentality)” and a demonstrable Agile mindset are also crucial. Desirable qualifications include expertise in automation and AI applications, leadership experience in a global context, and complex project management experience.
Compensation and Benefits
The position offers a competitive salary range of $227,700 to $380,000, along with bonus and Long-Term Incentive (LTI) eligibility. Unilever provides a comprehensive benefits package including health insurance, retirement savings plans, and various voluntary benefits.
Commitment to Inclusion and Equal Opportunity
Unilever emphasizes its commitment to inclusion and equal opportunity, stating, “We welcome applicants from all walks of life and are committed to creating an environment where everyone can thrive/succeed.” The company is an Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages applications from protected veterans and individuals with disabilities. Individuals requiring assistance during the recruitment process can contact [email protected].
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