Job Title: Brand Strategy and Marketing Lead
Location: Torrance, CA
Work Model: Onsite
Compensation: $97-102k
Working Conditions: Full-time, 100% onsite in Torrance, CA. Travel up to 25% for shoots, events and partner meetings. Expected to oversee 3 direct reports (subject to change based on business needs).
Overtime: No
POSITION OVERVIEW
Job Purpose: In a contractor, consultant or contingent-to-hire capacity, the Brand Strategy and Marketing Lead develops and drives brand strategy for the assigned brand (client or Acura) and turns it into integrated marketing plans that build brand strength, support sales and help the business grow over the long term. This role is part of a team that that helps shape the strategy and carries out the tactics behind major brand work throughout the year, including model launches, sustainment efforts, brand campaigns, events and partnerships. Working closely with agency partners and internal stakeholders, this role provides strategic leadership and continuity for the brand, making sure all work is aligned with the strategy and delivered on time and within budget. The role is designed to flex and may support other departments within the Marketing Division as business needs change.
WHAT YOU WILL BE DOING
Key Accountabilities:
Brand Strategy & Business Planning (40%) – Develop and drive brand strategy for the assigned brand, and play a key role in building the 104Ki (next fiscal year) business plan, including goals, strategies, key initiatives and budget. Lead a team that supports the strategy and executes tactics across model launches, sustainment efforts, brand campaigns, events and partnerships. Own holistic campaign performance management across creative, website, social and other channels, identifying gaps and driving timely countermeasures. Lead the creative agencies supporting the assigned brand and, in partnership with the Dept Head, develop the annual agency scope of work (SOW), including deliverables, staffing (FTEs) and fees, so agency resources match brand priorities. Report progress and results to leadership.
Creative Development (35%) – Manage and direct development of creative assets for brand campaigns, model launch and sustainment campaigns, regional sales event campaigns and multicultural markets. Attend commercial shoots and provide direction to agencies and vendors on how products are portrayed. Manage the flow of communication with agencies, other departments and associates within AHM.
Brand Partnerships (10%) – Support brand partnerships and sponsorships (e.g., NHL), covering asset development, event management, and other needs as they arise.
Special Projects (15%) – Special projects, as assigned (e.g., Export Marketing, LA28, Team USA Bobsled/Skeleton, etc.)
WHAT’S NEEDED
Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Business Management or a related field
10+ years of brand marketing or advertising experience; automotive industry preferred
Proven experience building brand strategy and annual business plans, including goals, budgets and KPIs
Strong analytical skills; able to assess campaign and business results, pinpoint root causes and turn findings into clear recommendations and countermeasures
Experience leading creative agencies as the direct client, including scope of work, staffing (FTEs) and fee management
Current knowledge of creative development across traditional, digital, social, events and brand integrations
Experience managing brand partnerships and sponsorships; export or international marketing a plus
Knowledge of Tier 1, 2 and 3 marketing and experience working with field teams, dealers and DAAs
Experience leading and developing direct reports; experience supporting multiple brands or departments a plus
Strong communicator and presenter with senior executives; able to manage multiple projects and budgets, ramp up quickly and adjust as business needs change
Proficient in Microsoft Office (strong Excel and PowerPoint); comfortable using AI tools such as Microsoft Copilot or ChatGPT; able to turn marketing data into clear recommendations
COMPENSATION & BENEFITS
• Medical, dental, and vision insurance
• 401(k)
• Other standard benefits as applicable
ABOUT UNICON
UNICON is a workforce solutions provider with over 35 years of experience supporting organizations across a variety of industries. We partner with our clients to deliver skilled professionals while maintaining a strong focus on quality, compliance, and long-term relationships. UNICON is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability, or veteran status.