Global Marketing Manager

What does a typical day in your role look like?

Every day is a little different. My work often involves meetings with cross-functional teams to discuss how we can improve what we do today and what the future looks like for the product we are working on. A big focus is on creating long-term sustainable value for our product lines and ensuring each part of the organisation is aligned with strategic priorities.

How did you get into this role?

I got here through a mix of experience and opportunity. I started off in consulting and then transitioned into product & brand management after my MBA. I then  worked my way up through Zespri, working on a variety of areas from packaging to taste studies and many other miscellaneous projects before moving into my current role.

Did you need to study for this role, if so, what did you study?

Yes. I studied a range of subjects — I majored in Economics & Computer Science, which taught me logic and foundations in reasoning. I then completed an MBA, which gave me a broad set of skills. I’ve also worked in companies that supported my ongoing learning such as Deloitte, P&G and Unilever.

What do you enjoy most about your work?

Two things stand out:

1. The Great People — I work with a wide range of talented individuals from all career paths and I am constantly learning from all of them.

2. The variety — my role covers a broad scope, so I’m not limited to one area and it never gets boring.

What’s something unique, surprising, or fun about your role or team?

Managing a natural product is unique because it’s dictated by nature. That makes it much harder to pivot or change compared to industries like FMCG. For example, when I worked at Unilever, we could change ice cream flavours within a year — a stark contrast to kiwifruit.

What advice would you give someone interested in your role or career path?

If you’re interested in product management, start by looking at the products around you and think about how they meet consumer needs. Do you like following new product launches? Are you comfortable being a jack of all trades — but not specialising in one particular area. Many people in this field have a business background, but any experience and skills you can gain early will help. Be curious, adaptable, and open to learning.