Programmatic Specialist

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.

Job Title: Programmatic Specialist 

Company: WPP Media South Africa 

Location: Johannesburg, South Africa 

Reports To: Media Solutions Lead 

 The Opportunity: Your Impact 

At WPP Media, we are the AI-driven heart of the world’s leading growth partner for brands. We are seeking a true programmatic expert to join our team, someone who lives and breathes data, optimisation, and performance. 

This isn't just an activation role. You will be the engine of our clients' programmatic success, responsible for the flawless end-to-end strategy, execution, and optimisation of campaigns. You will act as a steward of major media investments, translating complex data into tangible business growth and shaping the future of our clients' advertising. 

What You'll Do (Key Responsibilities): 

• End-to-End Campaign Management: Flawlessly plan, set up, and execute programmatic campaigns across video and display, with a sharp focus on Real-Time Bidding (RTB). 

• Strategic Optimization: Continuously analyze campaign data to identify strategic optimizations, manage yield, and maximize ROI against client business objectives. 

• Platform Mastery: Manage day-to-day operations and build strong relationships with core DSPs, SSPs, agency trading desks, and other media partners. 

• Technical Execution: Own the technical details, including inventory and marketplace setup, audience segmentation, and implementing advanced data targeting strategies. 

• Insight & Consultation: Serve as the in-house expert on all things programmatic, providing strategic recommendations to senior teams and clients, and helping to win new business. 
• Innovation & Growth: Evaluate new platforms, partners, and technologies to ensure WPP Media and our clients remain at the cutting edge of the industry. 

Who You Are (Core Requirements & Qualifications): 

We are looking for a hands-on practitioner with a deep passion for the programmatic landscape. 

Essential Experience:  

• Minimum 3 years of dedicated, hands-on-keyboard experience in a programmatic buying or trading role.  

• DSP Expertise: Demonstrable, advanced-level experience with at least one major DSP is essential. Primarily Google Display & Video 360 (DV360); experience with The Trade Desk is also highly valued. 

• Technical Acumen: Strong, practical understanding of the entire programmatic ecosystem (SSPs, Ad Exchanges, DMPs), ad-serving, and tag management. 
• Analytical Mindset: Proven ability to analyse complex datasets and translate performance data into actionable insights and clear, concise reports. 

Highly Advantageous (Bonus Points): 

• Official certifications (e.g., Google DV360, Google Ads). 
• Experience with Google Tag Manager (GTM). 
• Client-facing experience and strong presentation skills. 
• Why Join Us at WPP Media? 

We believe the best work happens when our people are empowered to grow. 

• Master Your Craft: We don't just offer a job; we offer a career trajectory. Get access to WPP's global network and unparalleled training resources to earn certifications and become a leader in the field. 

• Work on a Global Stage: Manage campaigns for some of the world's most iconic brands, seeing the direct impact of your expertise on their success.
• A Culture of Collaboration: Join a forward-thinking team that values curiosity and initiative. We foster a supportive environment where you can share ideas, tackle challenges, and celebrate wins together. 

• Tangible Benefits: We provide comprehensive benefits, including competitive medical and retirement plans, generous paid time off, and a clear commitment to your well-being and work-life balance. 

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