Data Strategy Manager (FTC)

Who We Are:

At VML, we are a beacon of innovation and growth in an ever-evolving world. Our heritage is built upon a century of combined expertise, where creativity meets technology, and diverse perspectives ignite inspiration. With the merger of VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson, we have forged a new path as a growth partner that is part creative agency, part consultancy, and part technology powerhouse.

Our global family now encompasses over 30,000 employees across 150+ offices in 64 markets, each contributing to a culture that values connection, belonging, and the power of differences. Our expertise spans the entire customer journey, offering deep insights in communications, commerce, consultancy, CRM, CX, data, production, and technology. We deliver end-to-end solutions that result in revolutionary work.

About the team you will be joining

You'll be joining a dynamic and award-winning data strategy team within a fast-paced agency environment. Reporting to the Head of Data Strategy, the team is part of the wider EMEA Data team. This has a mix of consultants, analysts, data scientists and insight and effectiveness experts as well as a team of technical enablement specialists.

Who we’re looking for

We're seeking a highly collaborative and enthusiastic Data Strategy Manager (Senior Data Planner) to join our team for a fixed-term maternity leave cover working across a broad range of accounts. You will be a key data evangelist, working with clients and internal teams to develop and deliver data-driven strategies focused on CRM targeting, personalization, measurement, and optimization across multiple digital channels.

What You Will Be Doing:

As a Data Strategy Manager, you will be a crucial link between data analysis and broader marketing strategy, developing connected, data-inspired CRM programs. This involves:

• Building strong relationships with client stakeholders and internal VML teams to promote, develop, and manage data and analysis deliverables.
• Leading data discovery and analysis projects to unify consumer data and develop actionable insights.
• Developing data strategies and roadmaps to guide client marketing activities.
• Defining frameworks to measure marketing effectiveness, setting KPIs, benchmarks, targets, and forecasts.
• Defining and setting up reporting and analysis processes that meet client objectives.
• Developing campaign targeting plans and briefs for internal or 3rd party campaign delivery teams.
• Measuring, evaluating, and optimizing marketing activity using best practice testing methodologies.
• Acting as a trusted advisor to clients on all data-related matters, enabling data-driven decision-making.
• Presenting regularly to clients and attending client meetings.
• Driving strategy across all channels and touchpoints, from email, push, and SMS to a connected communications plan encompassing digital media, including social, mobile, and website.
• Contributing to the development of junior team members by sharing knowledge and fostering a learning culture.
• Working closely with analysts, strategists, account and campaign delivery teams, and multiple client stakeholders.

What Skills Will Help You Be Successful:

• 6+ years of experience in a data function, preferably within an agency environment or a similar role with transferable skills.
• Strong understanding of CRM principles and digital marketing landscape
• Proven ability to manage projects and work effectively within cross-functional teams.
• Excellent communication, organization, proposal writing, and presentation skills.
• Ability to explain complex technical data concepts in a clear and concise manner to non-technical audiences.
• Strategic thinking and analytical skills, with a high level of numeracy.
• Proficiency in Excel and other data analysis tools.
• Familiarity with marketing automation platforms, CDPs, and ESPs, especially Salesforce Marketing Cloud.
• Experience with website analytics and personalization/testing tools (e.g., Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics & Target).
• Knowledge of social analytics tools (e.g., Brandwatch, Sprinklr) is a plus.
• Experience with data visualization tools (e.g., Tableau, Power BI) is beneficial.
• A proactive, curious, and collaborative approach, with a willingness to learn and push boundaries.
• A passion for data and its potential to drive business impact.
• Line management an advantage

#LI-EMEA

At VML, we are committed to fostering an all-inclusive work environment that is both rewarding and career-forward. Our Inclusion, Equity & Belonging initiatives, alongside the VML Foundation, reflect our dedication to giving back and making a positive impact in our communities and beyond. Our people are the heartbeat of our organization—creators, doers, innovators, makers, and thinkers—who drive not just marketing, but meaningful experiences that resonate in every action and interaction.

VML is a WPP Agency. For more information, please visit our website, and follow VML on our social channels via Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.

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