WPP Media | (MFG) Media Planning Manager, Japan

WPP is the creative transformation company. We use the power of creativity to build better futures for our people, planet, clients, and communities.

Working at WPP means being part of a global network of more than 100,000 talented people dedicated to doing extraordinary work for our clients. We operate in over 100 countries, with corporate headquarters in New York, London and Singapore.

WPP is a world leader in marketing services, with deep AI, data and technology capabilities, global presence and unrivalled creative talent. Our clients include many of the biggest companies and advertisers in the world, including approximately 300 of the Fortune Global 500.

Our people are the key to our success. We're committed to fostering a culture of creativity, belonging and continuous learning, attracting and developing the brightest talent, and providing exciting career opportunities that help our people grow. 

About the role

The Media Planning Manager is responsible for developing data-driven, innovative media plans that ensure marketing campaigns reach the right audiences in the most effective and impactful way. This role combines strategic media planning with strong client partnership, acting as a trusted advisor who deeply understands clients’ businesses, objectives, and broader marketing context.

Media Planning Managers analyze data, market insights, and consumer behavior to devise, propose, and recommend effective use of media to drive brand growth, customer acquisition, drive engagement, retention, and long-term loyalty. They also play a central role in building and maintaining strong client relationships by orchestrating end-to-end campaign delivery, leveraging deep knowledge of digital media levers, and ensuring consistently high-quality execution that drives client satisfaction and trust.

Some of the things we’d like you to do:

• Lead audience research using syndicated and first-party data to inform strategic and tactical media planning
• Develop and manage media plans, forecasts, presentations, and all core planning documentation
• Define creative specifications, measurement frameworks, and campaign analysis approaches
• Oversee campaign setup and launch, ensuring quality, accuracy, and on-time delivery across channels
• Maintain campaign tracking and deliverable documentation, providing clear visibility across teams
• Monitor performance against targets, proactively identifying risks, optimization opportunities, and required interventions
• Deliver clear performance commentary, ensure reporting quality standards, and contribute to campaign wrap-ups and insights
• Act as the primary day-to-day client lead, building trusted relationships and confidently managing briefs, feedback, and expectations
• Translate client objectives into clear plans, timelines, and deliverables for both simple and complex campaigns
• Lead regular internal and client status sessions to drive alignment and momentum
• Coordinate closely with activation, strategy, and analytics teams to ensure high-quality campaign delivery
• Provide project management support across the campaign lifecycle, escalating risks and issues as needed
• Responsible for operational excellence, including forecasting, documentation, and billing compliance
• Manage and develop 1–2 direct reports through clear goal-setting, coaching, and ongoing feedback
• Provide timely, actionable feedback to the broader team to drive continuous improvement

A bit about yourself: 

• At least 3-5 years’ experience in digital media, advertising, marketing and/or client services
• Working knowledge and effective vocabulary across search, social, display, video, and/or programmatic media buying
• Experience with Media Research Tools (Comscore, GWI, TGI, YouGov)
• Ability to provide optimal media plan which aligns with client's business goal and delivers results against media investment.
• Strong organizational and project management skills with a keen ability to prioritize and multitask
• Proven problem solving skills and ability to think outside of the box 
• Ability to work independently and collaborate in a team environment
• Detail oriented and responsive, deadline-driven with strong reasoning skills
• Lead by example while motivating and coaching juniors on the team
• Manage Performance Development Cycle and Review process for juniors
• Native Japanese level with business fluency in English

We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we’ve adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office around four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.

WPP is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to particular characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.

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