How did you land this job?

It was a dream of mine for many years to work at Red Stripe, and when the opportunity presented itself I was extremely excited.The rigour and detail that the interview process required was an early indication of the high level of excellence the company requires. Eighteen months later I can proudly say that joining Red Stripe and Diageo has been a great career move.

How long have you had this job?

I have been the Assistant Brand Manager for Spirits since November 2011.

What’s great about your job?

There are three really great things about my job. Firstly, working with Smirnoff and Diageo has provided me with a strong marketing platform. The business processes and development programmes have strengthened my cognitive skills significantly. The thrill of working with the world’s greatest brands has also opened my mind to solving new challenges, developing cutting-edge execution programmes and creating innovative marketing plans that will make my consumers excited to interact with the brands.

Secondly, Red Stripe invests in its most important resource – people. Ranging from courses in leadership to marketing and personal development, Red Stripe values its team members and always seeks to keep us engaged, excited and productive.

Thirdly, I get to shape/influence the drinks culture in Jamaica while providing exciting experiences for our consumers. Take Smirnoff, for example; it is the world’s number one premium spirit and we get to offer innovative and exciting mixed drinks. We then pair that great drinking experience with great events such as Smirnoff Dream Week, Osmosis and Daydreams, to deliver an unforgettable time for our consumers.

Tell us something we might not know about Smirnoff

There are so many aspects of Smirnoff that you may not know… but I think many people may not realise that Smirnoff is the number one premium vodka brand in the world! Additionally, there are more than 26 flavours of Smirnoff available globally, including confectionery flavours such as Whipped Cream, Marshmallow and Sorbet.

Why are Smirnoff’s products attractive to consumers?

Smirnoff is a catalyst for a new attitude. We want people to experience more, to play more, to connect more and together explore new possibilities every day, everywhere. In short, we want people to feel alive. From drinks to nightlife to life, we inspire, provoke and empower people to be more inventive. In doing so we help create a world where more people feel free to ignite their own ambitions.

Where can customers find out more about your brands?

Customers can visit the global Smirnoff page at www.smirnoff.com, or they can interact with Smirnoff on our Facebook page by searching “Smirnoff Jamaica”.Win! Win!What is the … See Today’s Thursday Food for question

Red Stripe Assistant Brand Manager — Spirits, Lelieka Barnes, has six Smirnoff gift packages, stocked with a 750ml bottle of Smirnoff Flavours, a Smirnoff cup and a branded bag for six lucky Thursday Life readers.

Answer this simple question

The first 6 Thursday Life readers to send the correct answer by e-mail to marketingpromotion@jamaicaobserver.com by 12:00 noon today, Thursday, May 23, 2013, will each win a Smirnoff gift package, including a 750ml bottle of Smirnoff Flavours, a Smirnoff cup and a branded bag. You must include your name, occupation and telephone number.