About PepsiCo

PepsiCo is one of the world's leading food and beverage companies, with an iconic portfolio that includes Pepsi, Lay's, Gatorade, Tropicana, and Quaker. Operating in over 200 countries, PepsiCo employs more than 300,000 people dedicated to delivering innovative products that delight consumers while advancing sustainable business practices. In the UK, PepsiCo is a powerhouse in the beverage sector, partnering with bottlers and retailers to drive category growth and market leadership. Our commitment to sustainable growth, flawless execution, and future-forward planning positions us at the forefront of the industry.

Role Overview

As Senior Manager, Franchise – Commercial Strategy, based in Reading, United Kingdom, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and executing commercial strategies across key UK customers, channels, and brands. This position sits within the Franchise Commercial Leadership team, acting as a strategic connector between DX, commercial, brand, and bottler teams. You will translate insights into actionable plans, elevate customer partnerships, and drive performance for both established and emerging beverage brands. With a focus on sustainable growth and integrated planning, this role ensures PepsiCo's portfolio excels in the market.

Strategic Impact

Your work will directly influence PepsiCo's commercial success in the UK, from performance management to new brand launches. Expect to own processes like MBR, QBR, and AOP, while fostering alignment across the PepsiCo and bottler ecosystem.

Key Responsibilities

In this dynamic role, you will lead high-impact initiatives across customer and channel performance. Key responsibilities include:

• Tracking, analysing, and communicating performance trends across retail, dComm, and AFH channels; identifying risks, opportunities, and interventions.
• Taking full commercial ownership of MBR, QBR, and AOP processes, aligning scorecards between PepsiCo and bottlers.
• Building and executing go-to-market strategies for new brands, defining priority channels, trial catalysts, activation levers, and launch KPIs.
• Leading strategic planning and commercial frameworks for key brands and customers, aligned with PepsiCo's growth pillars.
• Developing compelling narratives for senior leadership to highlight performance, opportunities, and resource needs.
• Translating shopper insights, competitive analysis, and market trends into clear commercial recommendations for accelerated brand growth.

Qualifications & Requirements

To succeed in this role, you need a blend of commercial expertise, strategic thinking, and execution prowess. Essential qualifications include:

• Deep understanding of multi-channel dynamics (AFH, OT, wholesale, digital, emerging routes) and how they influence trial, distribution, pricing, and activation.
• Strong commercial and strategic acumen to connect insights, data, levers, and priorities into actionable strategies.
• Proven executional excellence in turning strategies into operational plans with measurable results.
• Cross-functional influence skills to align complex internal and external stakeholders.
• Insight-led thinking, comfortable with shopper data, market analytics, and competitive intelligence.
• Clear, compelling communication to simplify complexity and influence seniors, educating on winning models beyond core CSDs.
• Entrepreneurial mindset for ambiguity, creative problem-solving, and evolving priorities, plus a growth orientation to challenge norms and improve processes.

Experience Level

Ideal candidates bring 8+ years in FMCG commercial roles, with UK food & beverage sector experience preferred.

Benefits & Perks

PepsiCo offers a premium compensation package designed to attract top talent:

• Competitive salary estimated at £65,000 - £95,000, plus performance-based bonuses.
• Comprehensive health insurance, dental, and wellness programs.
• Generous pension contributions and employee stock purchase plans.
• 25+ days annual leave, plus bank holidays and flexible working arrangements.
• Access to on-site gyms, cafeterias, and employee discounts on PepsiCo products.
• Family-friendly policies including maternity/paternity leave and childcare support.

Career Growth

At PepsiCo, career progression is a priority. This Senior Manager role offers visibility to senior leadership and opportunities to lead transformative projects. With our global network, you can advance to Director-level positions or international assignments. We invest in leadership development through tailored training, mentoring, and stretch assignments, fostering a culture of continuous learning and innovation.

Development Opportunities

Participate in PepsiCo's leadership academies, cross-functional rotations, and external certifications to build expertise in commercial strategy and beyond.

Why Join Us

Joining PepsiCo means being part of a company that values bold ideas, sustainable impact, and collaborative excellence. In Reading, you'll work in a vibrant hub with modern facilities and proximity to London. Shape the future of beverages, influence market-leading brands, and contribute to PepsiCo's ambitious growth agenda. Our inclusive culture celebrates diversity, with employee resource groups and a commitment to equality.

Role FAQs

What is the work environment like?

A hybrid model blending office collaboration in Reading with flexible remote options, emphasizing teamwork and innovation.

Is relocation support available?

Yes, for eligible candidates, including assistance with housing and visas if applicable.

What are the next career steps?

High performers advance to VP Commercial Strategy or regional leadership roles.

How does PepsiCo support work-life balance?

Through flexible hours, mental health resources, and generous leave policies.

Is this role focused on specific brands?

It spans PepsiCo's portfolio, including core and emerging beverages across channels.