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Manager, Strategy & Planning

Chicago, Illinois, United States; New York, New York, United States

About Ketchum

As a global communications consultancy with 100 years of experience, Ketchum is a trusted partner who is equal parts creative and analytical. Ketchum is a place where all perspectives and points of view are welcome and encouraged. We are a collection of communications specialists, content creators, creatives, researchers, data analysts, media pros, digital strategists, issues and crisis counselors, and tech nerds. And we love when those worlds collide to create the very best teams and solutions for our clients. We work with the world’s leading brands, emerging start-ups, and everything in between. We are beyond proud to have created some of the most celebrated and award-winning campaigns in our industry. We’re just crazy enough to think we can impact the world – and how it responds to ideas – through communication.

We encourage our employees to be curious, brave, inspiring, and a force for good. Let’s talk. Come belong at Ketchum!

 

Overview: 

As a Manager, Strategy & Planning, you will play a critical role in developing insights-driven strategies for some of the world’s leading brands. You will work closely with account teams and senior strategists to translate research, data, and cultural trends into actionable plans that drive business impact. 

Key Responsibilities:

STRATEGY DEVELOPMENT & EXECUTION 

  • Support the development of strategic plans by conducting research, audience segmentation, and trend analysis. 
  • Translate consumer insights into compelling storytelling and communications strategies. 
  • Assist in crafting presentations and strategic recommendations for clients. 

RESEARCH & ANALYSIS 

  • Partner with analysts to use qualitative and quantitative research to uncover audience behaviors and market opportunities. 
  • Monitor industry trends, competitor activities, and emerging media landscapes to inform client strategies. 
  • Summarize key insights into clear and concise briefs. 

CROSS-FUNCTIONAL COLLABORATION 

  • Work closely with account, creative, and channel teams to ensure strategies and tactics align with campaign goals. 
  • Support senior strategists in new business pitches and proposal development. 
  • Contribute to the Strategy team’s knowledge-sharing efforts through internal presentations and documentation. 

Qualifications:

  • 3-5 years of experience in strategic planning, brand strategy, or a related field. 
  • Strong analytical and research skills with experience in audience insights, category analysis, and cultural trends 
  • Strong writing and storytelling abilities 
  • Passion for media, culture, and emerging trends in communications. 
  • Experience working in an agency or consulting environment is a plus. 

 

The salary range for this position is $70,000 - $80,000. The salary of the finalist selected for this role will be based on a variety of factors, including but not limited to, education, years of experience, past training, skills and abilities of applicant, internal equity and local geographic market data. A range of medical, dental, vision, 401(k) matching, paid time off, and/or other benefits also are available. #LI-Hybrid

What We Offer

  • Hybrid Workplace: Three days a week in the office
  • Robust benefits program, effective within 30 days of hire
  • Paid maternity/paternity leave
  • Family Forming Benefits
  • Employee Recognition Program
  • Generous paid time off includes vacation, wellness, and extended holiday schedule
  • Various development opportunities to enhance personal and professional life
  • Tuition reimbursement
  • Monthly Cell Phone & Wi-Fi reimbursement

Interested? We’ve got an opportunity for you.

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