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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Become the go-to expert for Kia's automotive models and manage their lifecycle.
- Company: Join Kia UK, a leading automotive brand known for innovation and sustainability.
- Benefits: Enjoy perks like a car scheme, free lunches, private medical care, and wellness benefits.
- Why this job: Make an impact in the automotive industry while growing your skills in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in the automotive sector and strong analytical skills are essential.
- Other info: Work in a vibrant office with great culture and opportunities for personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 50000 £ per year.
Welcome to Kia UK! Kia UK is a leading automotive brand offering one of the industry’s largest range of models across multiple vehicle segments. With more than 190 Kia dealerships across the country, Kia is widely known for its advanced electrified products. Kia UK has consistently grown for over 30 years, supported by bold design, quality products and ever-evolving customer service. By 2027, the brand aims to offer no less than nine fully electric vehicles in the UK. People are central to Kia UK and every day is an opportunity to learn something new and to grow personally and professionally.
The Role
As a Product Specialist at Kia, you will be the expert and go-to person for a portfolio of automotive models, involved in every stage from initial concept through to launch and lifecycle management. This dynamic role requires a deep understanding of Kia products, market segments, and competitors, as well as strong analytical, organisational, and communication skills. You will present to diverse audiences, create and maintain product materials, and collaborate closely with internal teams and external partners to maximise competitiveness and profitability.
Main Responsibilities
- Manage applicable models throughout their lifecycle stages, including initial UK specification, pricing and planning, with a significant focus on launch planning.
- Maximise the competitiveness and profitability of each model by the continuous review of market conditions.
- Ensure the effective and accurate communication of applicable products’ features and prices.
- Be the Kia expert for your range of models.
- Develop proposals for the specification and grade strategy of applicable models.
- Identify market opportunities, and develop Special Action Models to take advantage of these at the appropriate point in a model’s lifecycle.
- Work as the product expert in presentations and PR events as necessary.
- Responsible for the detailed pricing of applicable models and features in close collaboration with Kia Europe (KEU) and Kia UK’s (KUK) Finance department.
- Be the company expert on this sector of the market in terms of competitor product and marketing actions.
- Communicate product and pricing information internally and externally (Kia dealer network and market makers).
- Maintain all products on internal data systems: KDCS and SAP.
- Maintain the accuracy of model-specific finance costing.
- Report to Kia Corporation / KEU as appropriate on KUK’s product and pricing offering.
- Work with KUK’s Fleet team to maximise product competitiveness in the sectors.
- Support the wider KUK Marketing team to ensure product accuracy of KUK marketing assets.
- Liaise with the Dealer Support Team to ensure the relevant information/vehicles are ‘live’ on the Kia Portal system at the appropriate times.
- Maintain and strengthen cross-company communication channels in respect of product issues and news.
- Liaise with After Sales team to integrate accessories into the product offer to maximise competitiveness and profit margin.
Skills
- Strong computer literacy; SAP, JATO and MVRIS experience beneficial.
- Strong analytical skills and organisational skills.
- Conscientious and strong attention to detail.
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal.
- Good presentation skills.
- Minimum 2 years work experience essential.
- Interest in marketing as a business function.
- Ability to work to tight deadlines or enjoys working in a fast-paced environment.
- Full valid UK driving license.
Experience
Experience in the automotive sector is required. We recognise that there may be a number of ways to meet our requirements. We are looking for the best candidate for the job and encourage you to apply even if your experience or qualifications don’t exactly match what we’ve outlined in the role description.
The Benefits
- Employee Car Scheme (car lease + insurance all included from £90/month).
- Onsite Chef at head office > free lunch.
- Private Medical Care (Vitality).
- Annual Health Checks and free flu jabs.
- Private Dental Care (Denplan, £0 excess).
- Pension with enhanced employer contribution.
- Income Protection & life Assurance.
- Critical Illness Protection.
- 24 days Annual Leave + Bank Holidays.
- Wellness benefits including cycle to work scheme, free eye tests, EAP, Mental Health First Aiders and more.
- Financial hub providing free financial guidance and support.
- Work from anywhere for one week a year.
- Enhanced Maternity, Adoption and Shared Parental Leave (up to 6 months full pay).
- Enhanced Paternity Leave (up to 4 weeks full pay).
- Free weekly yoga, football, and badminton clubs whilst onsite at UK headquarters.
- Pool tables, dart board, and massage chairs whilst onsite at UK headquarters.
- Opportunity to get involved & give back via our charity partners.
- Birthday Vouchers.
- Celebrations such as our Spring Ball, Christmas events, Social Club and much more!
Location/Travel
The Kia UK Head Office is based in Walton-on-Thames, just a 5 minute walk from the station. We also have plenty of on-site parking for drivers, including EV charging ports. There is step-free access throughout the building, but please let us know if you require any additional accessibility support and we will cater to your needs as best we can.
Interview Process
- Step 1: CV review.
- Step 2: Teams Interview.
- Step 3: Face to Face Interview & Presentation at Head Office.
Product Specialist in Walton-on-Thames employer: Kia Europe
Contact Detail:
Kia Europe Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Product Specialist in Walton-on-Thames
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know Kia inside out! Research our products, values, and recent news. This will not only help you in interviews but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your presentation skills! As a Product Specialist, you'll need to communicate effectively. Try presenting to friends or family to build confidence.
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Connect with current Kia employees on LinkedIn. They can provide insights and might even refer you for the role. Plus, it shows you're proactive!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, you’ll find all the latest roles and updates there.
We think you need these skills to ace Product Specialist in Walton-on-Thames
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored to the Product Specialist role. Highlight your experience in the automotive sector and any relevant skills that match the job description. We want to see how you can bring value to Kia UK!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for the automotive industry and why you’re excited about the opportunity at Kia. Let us know how your background aligns with our goals.
Showcase Your Analytical Skills: Since this role requires strong analytical skills, be sure to include examples of how you've used these in previous roles. Whether it's market analysis or product management, we want to see your thought process!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kia Europe
✨Know Your Kia Products
Before the interview, dive deep into Kia's product range, especially the models you'll be working with. Familiarise yourself with their features, specifications, and how they stack up against competitors. This knowledge will not only impress your interviewers but also show your genuine interest in the role.
✨Showcase Your Analytical Skills
As a Product Specialist, strong analytical skills are key. Prepare examples from your past experience where you've successfully analysed market conditions or product performance. Be ready to discuss how you can apply these skills to maximise Kia's competitiveness and profitability.
✨Practice Your Presentation Skills
You'll need to present to diverse audiences, so practice makes perfect! Create a mock presentation about a Kia model and rehearse it. Focus on clear communication and engaging storytelling to demonstrate your ability to convey product information effectively.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street. Prepare thoughtful questions about Kia's future product strategies, sustainability goals, or team dynamics. This shows you're not just interested in the job, but also in how you can contribute to Kia's vision and growth.
