What are the responsibilities and job description for the Brand Marketing Paid Internship - Summer 2026 position at Central Garden & Pet?
Description
Central Specialty Pet, a division of Central Garden & Pet, is looking for driven and ambitious Summer 2026 Brand Marketing Interns to join our team in Franklin, WI (metro-Milwaukee). This is a paid, 10-week summer internship with a hybrid work environment supporting two of our leading brands: Kaytee and C&S.Our interns work directly on brands that serve passionate pet parents and wild bird enthusiasts across the country:- Kaytee – A category-leading brand serving small animals and birds with a full range of nutrition, habitat, and care solutions.
- C&S – A market leader in suet and wild bird feeding products.
- Lead meaningful business projects that directly influence brand performance.
- Gain exposure to brand strategy, product innovation, and integrated marketing campaign workstreams.
- Experience how consumer data and insights translate into real-world brand marketing decisions and execution.
- Develop a deeper understanding of B2B marketing operations, retailer dynamics, and how brands compete and grow within the CPG industry.
- Build exposure to cross-functional teams including eCommerce, Digital Marketing, Creative Services, Sales, R&D, Supply Chain, and Consumer Insights, with opportunities for learning sessions and collaborative training.
- Receive ongoing coaching and mentorship from experienced marketing leaders.
- Fully immersive internship designed to mirror full-time marketing roles.
- Opportunity to be considered for full-time employment based on performance and business need.
- Experience a workplace that truly lives its brands — including an office environment shared with small pets and birds that bring energy and authenticity to our everyday work.
- Co-lead development of new product concepts from consumer insight through commercialization planning.
- Develop integrated marketing communication campaigns, including corresponding digital and social media strategy.
- Support go-to-market strategy for new or existing product lines.
- Identify growth opportunities within targeted consumer segments or retail channels.
- Conducting competitive shopping analysis across key retailers.
- Analyze consumer trends, market dynamics, category performance, and brand results to uncover strategic insights.
- Leveraging marketing technology and AI tools to support insight development and business analysis.
- Currently enrolled in an undergraduate program at an accredited college or university, pursuing a degree in Marketing, Business, or a related field, with a strong academic record.
- Rising Junior or Senior status preferred.
- Demonstrated interest in brand marketing, strategy, consumer insights, digital marketing, and analytics.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills with the ability to present ideas clearly and persuasively.
- Analytical and strategic thinking skills, with curiosity about market trends and consumer behavior.
- Proven leadership, initiative, and ability to collaborate effectively in team environments.
- Creative, resourceful, and motivated self-starter with a strong drive for learning and professional growth.
- We’re looking for individuals ready to bring fresh ideas, energy, and passion to our marketing team.