Associate Director, Planning, UK

Associate Director, Planning, UK Overview

This position offers a unique chance to take full ownership of communications planning for a prominent brand within a dynamic and collaborative client marketing team. Whether you are currently at the Director level or a high-performing Planning Manager looking to advance, this role places you at the forefront of developing innovative, insight-driven media strategies that make a significant impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the planning process for client briefs from inception to completion, establishing high standards for excellence.
• Develop a comprehensive understanding of the client’s brand, market, competitive environment, and business challenges to become a strategic partner.
• Provide updates on media trends, new platforms, and innovations to keep the team and clients informed and ahead of the competition.
• Promote WPP’s capabilities and collaborative approaches, embodying the integrated mindset across media and creative sectors.
• Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with brand leaders, agency partners, and media owners, fostering partnerships based on trust and shared goals.
• Present innovative ideas confidently to senior clients and stakeholders, ensuring clear communication and engagement.
• Collaborate with the Client Director and Client Lead to identify opportunities for revenue growth and innovative practices.
• Oversee daily account operations, governance, and workflows, ensuring effective media activation and delivery.
• Manage campaign reporting to provide actionable insights and lead post-campaign evaluations with the Planning Manager and Executive.
• Ensure accurate financial management of accounts, including billing, reconciliations, and finance-related inquiries.
• Anticipate and address planning challenges proactively to prevent issues from arising.
• Mentor and develop the Planning Manager and Executive through regular feedback and support for their professional growth.
• Enhance the account’s visibility within the agency by producing award-worthy work and promoting team achievements.
• Encourage the use of agency tools and processes, including WPP Open, within the team.

Requirements

• Extensive experience in media planning with a strong focus on above-the-line (ATL) strategies and a thorough understanding of the digital landscape.
• Demonstrated success in delivering effective communications planning with a focus on measurement and clear objectives.
• Strong client management abilities, capable of establishing credibility and confidence with stakeholders at all levels.
• Exceptional presentation skills, with the ability to create and deliver engaging narratives.
• Proficient in core media planning tools and methodologies, with comprehensive experience in the planning process from brief to evaluation.
• Self-motivated and proactive, thriving in a dynamic and fast-paced environment.
• Meticulous attention to detail, ensuring high-quality outputs in all aspects of work.
• Collaborative mindset with strong listening skills, able to work effectively across diverse teams and personalities.
• Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining composure and focus under pressure.

Benefits

• Competitive medical, dental, and vision insurance.
• Group retirement plans.
• Generous paid time off policy.
• Discounts with partner organizations.
• Employee mental health awareness days.
• Opportunities for professional development and networking within the WPP global network.
• A hybrid working model, encouraging collaboration and creativity in the office.

WPP Media is committed to creating an inclusive environment where everyone feels they belong and has opportunities for advancement. We encourage you to apply if you meet the qualifications for this role.

Degree Requirement: Not Specified

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