Planning Director

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.

Who we're looking for:

At VML, we create connected brands. We resist the usual ways and find new ways to connect brands with the people who matter most to them. As a Planning Director, you'll be a key driver of this mission, leading strategic thinking and inspiring creative solutions that deliver impactful results for our clients. You'll be a champion for the consumer, ensuring their voice is at the heart of every campaign.

What you'll be doing:

• Strategic Leadership: Lead the development of insightful and actionable communication strategies, grounded in data and consumer understanding.
• Client Collaboration: Partner with clients to understand their business challenges and objectives, translating them into clear and inspiring creative briefs.
• Creative Inspiration: Collaborate closely with creative teams, providing strategic direction and inspiring innovative ideas that resonate with the target audience. Participate in brainstorms and provide constructive feedback throughout the creative development process.
• Consumer Advocacy: Be the voice of the consumer, ensuring their needs, motivations, and behaviors are at the forefront of all strategic decisions. Leverage research and data to develop deep consumer insights.
• Team Leadership: Mentor and guide junior planning team members, fostering a collaborative and inspiring work environment.
• Presentation & Storytelling: Develop compelling presentations that effectively communicate strategic recommendations to clients and internal teams.
• Innovation & Thought Leadership: Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and consumer behavior, proactively identifying opportunities for innovation and thought leadership.
• Agency Growth: Contribute to new business pitches and organic growth initiatives, showcasing VMLY&R's strategic capabilities.

What you'll need:

• Bachelor's degree in a related field (e.g., Marketing, Advertising, Communications, Sociology, Psychology).
• 5+ years of experience in strategic planning within an agency environment. Experience with digitally-driven campaigns is highly preferred.
• Proven track record of developing and executing successful marketing strategies that have delivered measurable results.
• Strong understanding of research methodologies and data analysis.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.

Preferrable Skills:

• Strategic Thinking: Ability to analyze complex information and develop insightful, actionable strategies.
• Collaboration & Teamwork: A collaborative spirit and ability to work effectively with cross-functional teams.
• Communication & Presentation: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely.
• Passion & Curiosity: A genuine passion for understanding consumer behavior and a curious mind that constantly seeks new knowledge.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to identify and solve complex problems, developing creative solutions that address client challenges.
• Digital Fluency: A strong understanding of the digital landscape and how brands can effectively connect with consumers in a digital world. Experience with social media strategy, content marketing, and emerging technologies is a plus.

#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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