Job Application for Director, Implementation Planning at WPP Media

About WPP Media

WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands. With exceptional talent, trusted data and intelligence, and world-class partnerships – all united by our pioneering agentic marketing platform, WPP Open – we help clients navigate change, capture opportunity, and deliver transformational growth. 

WPP Media is WPP's AI-driven media operating unit, bringing together media, data, and partnerships to deliver creative personalisation at scale. Connected through WPP Open and powered by Open Intelligence, clients see exactly where, how, and why their media investment is working.

For more information, visit wppmedia.com.

Role Summary and Impact

As the Director, Implementation Planning, you will lead the strategic direction and operational excellence of the Implementation Planning team while serving as a key link between local operations and Media Management and Delivery global leadership. This role requires a seasoned leader who can oversee the performance and development of Implementation Planning Managers and Senior Executives, ensuring campaigns are executed flawlessly, aligned with client objectives, and optimized for maximum impact.

You will also be responsible for monitoring Media Management and Delivery trading deals and KPIs, ensuring alignment with agency-wide goals and maximizing value for clients. In addition, you will drive the adoption and effective use of agency tools, automation solutions, and AI technologies to streamline processes, enhance campaign quality, and save time across all operations. Acting as a thought leader within the agency, you will play a pivotal role in fostering innovation, improving efficiency, and delivering exceptional results for clients.

Skills and Experience

Team Leadership & Development

Lead, mentor, and inspire Implementation Planning Managers and Senior Executives, fostering their professional growth and development.
Provide guidance to managers on delegating tasks, reviewing work, and maintaining high-quality standards across all deliverables.
Create a collaborative and high-performing team culture by encouraging knowledge sharing, training, and skill-building initiatives.
Act as the escalation point for complex challenges, providing strategic direction and solutions.

Campaign Oversight & Strategic Direction

Oversee the end-to-end execution of media campaigns across all channels (reserved media, social, search, programmatic, e-commerce, etc.), ensuring alignment with client objectives and KPIs.
Collaborate with Implementation Planning Managers to review campaign strategies, monitor pacing, and ensure budgets are managed with integrity, minimizing wastage and adhering to agreed limits.

Media Management and Delivery Deal & KPI Management

Monitor and track Media Management and Delivery trading deals and KPIs, ensuring campaigns align with global agreements and deliver maximum value for clients.
Serve as the primary contact between the team and Media Management and Delivery activation leadership, providing updates, insights, and recommendations on deal performance and opportunities for improvement.

Client Relationship Management

Act as the senior point of contact for high-level client discussions, addressing escalations, presenting campaign strategies, and delivering actionable insights.
Partner with clients to understand their evolving needs and translate them into innovative media solutions.
Represent the agency in client meetings, pitches, and presentations, showcasing thought leadership and expertise.

Tool Adoption & Process Automation

Drive the adoption of agency tools and technologies, ensuring teams are equipped to maximize their efficiency and effectiveness.
Integrate automation solutions and AI-driven tools into operational workflows to improve campaign quality, reduce manual workloads, and save time.
Identify opportunities to streamline processes and implement best practices that enhance both internal operations and client outcomes.

Data Analysis & Innovation

Review and validate consolidated reports from activation teams, ensuring accuracy and relevance.
Interpret data to identify trends, opportunities, and areas for improvement, and provide actionable recommendations to clients and internal stakeholders.
Stay updated on industry trends, platform updates, and emerging technologies, integrating these into client strategies to drive better results.

Operational Excellence

Establish and refine processes to improve campaign efficiency, scalability, and overall performance.
Collaborate with the Head of Media Management and Delivery leadership to align on long-term goals, share updates, and contribute to the overall success of the agency.
Drive innovation within the team by introducing new tools, techniques, and methodologies that enhance campaign outcomes.

Qualification

Proven leadership experience in managing and developing high-performing teams.
Advanced expertise in media planning and buying across digital channels, including social, search, programmatic, and e-commerce.
Strong understanding of trading deals, KPI management, and global partnership frameworks (e.g., Media Management and Delivery).
Exceptional client-facing communication and presentation abilities.
Deep knowledge of media planning tools, adtech solutions, and data analysis platforms.
Experience with automation tools and AI technologies to optimize workflows and improve efficiency.
Strategic mindset with a focus on innovation and continuous improvement.
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
Collaborative approach to working across departments and building strong relationships.

Why This Role?

This role is ideal for a visionary leader who thrives in a fast-paced environment and is passionate about driving innovation in digital media. As the Implementation Planning Director, you will have the opportunity to shape the future of the Implementation Planning team, influence high-level client strategies, and play a pivotal role in aligning local operations with global standards. You will not only lead but also empower your team to deliver exceptional results, leverage cutting-edge tools, and exceed client expectations.

Life at WPP Media & Benefits

Our passion for shaping the next era of media is powered by our commitment to Be Extraordinary, investing in our employees to inspire transformational creativity. We also Lead Optimistically, firmly believing in and Championing Growth and Development for every individual. This commitment allows WPP Media employees to leverage the extensive global WPP Media & WPP networks to pursue their passions, build vital professional connections, and learn at the cutting edge of marketing and advertising.

We Create an Open environment built on trust and respect, where everyone feels they belong and has opportunities to progress. This inclusive culture is fostered through a variety of employee resource groups and frequent in-office events showcasing team wins, sharing thought leadership, and celebrating holidays and milestone events. Our comprehensive benefits package reflects this commitment, including competitive medical, group retirement plans, vision, and dental insurance, significant paid time off, preferential partner discounts, and employee mental health awareness days.

WPP Media is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to characteristics. We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection in this open and supportive environment. 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.

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While we appreciate all applications received, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

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Director, Implementation Planning

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