Network Operations Director

WPP Media; Greater London; On-site; GBP 120,000 - 160,000; Full time

Job summary

WPP Media, the AI-driven media operating unit within WPP, seeks a Network Connection Director to drive operational excellence for the Unilever account. You will analyse global workflows, optimise processes, and lead cross-functional teams to deliver client outcomes.

You will leverage data and governance practices to improve efficiency, influence strategic priorities, and foster continuous improvement across the organisation. The role requires strong leadership and collaboration across functions.

Qualifications

• Substantial experience in media, marketing, or the wider creative industries.
• Ability to navigate and optimise complex global workflows.
• Proactive, ownership-driven, with strong initiative.

Responsibilities

• Analyse and optimise processes across a global network.
• Drive operational excellence to deliver client and business outcomes.
• Lead process reviews and update documentation.
• Train and mentor teams on optimised practices and methodologies.
• Provide progress reports and insights to stakeholders.

Skills

Media operations

Cross-functional leadership

Process optimization

Data-driven decisions

Project management

Stakeholder management

Governance

Communication skills

Job description

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 ourpioneeringagentic 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.

312 6 - Network Connection Director – Unilever - GCS Role Summary and Impact

The Network Connection Director plays a pivotal role in driving operational excellence across the Unilever account, ensuring teams are connected, aligned, and operating at maximum effectiveness to deliver exceptional client and business outcomes. Responsible for analysing and optimising processes across a complex global network, this role identifies opportunities to streamline workflows, improve resource utilisation, enhance collaboration, and embed a culture of continuous improvement.

Working closely with leadership and cross-functional teams, the Network Connection Director leverages data, insights, and best practices to improve efficiency, strengthen governance, and ensure alignment with strategic business objectives. Through proactive risk management, performance reporting, and operational oversight, they drive measurable improvements in team effectiveness, project delivery, and organisational productivity. By championing scalable ways of working and fostering a high-performing, connected culture, the role enables the wider organisation to adapt, evolve, and consistently deliver outstanding commercial and client results.

Responsibilities

• Process Optimisation
• Analyse current workflows and identify opportunities for improvement.
• Implement streamlined processes to reduce inefficiencies and enhance productivity.
• Leverage automation tools and best practices to optimise operational tasks.
• Monitor team performance metrics and identify bottlenecks.
• Foster cross-functional collaboration to ensure smooth project delivery.
• Create and maintain a culture of continuous improvement across the organisation.
• Conduct regular process reviews and update documentation accordingly.
• Train and mentor team members on optimised practices and methodologies.
• Operational Alignment
• Align team goals with broader organisational objectives to ensure cohesive efforts.
• Collaborate with leadership to set clear priorities and deliverables.
• Provide regular progress reports and insights to stakeholders.
• Risk Management and Problem Solving
• Identify potential risks associated with process inefficiencies and address them proactively.
• Act as a point of escalation for operational challenges and lead resolution efforts.
• Performance Reporting
• Monitor and track project deliverables & performance across all teams.
• Manage and report on the team’s KPIs to measure success.
• Use data-driven insights to recommend and implement process enhancements.

Key Skills and Experience

• Has substantial experience in media, marketing, or the wider creative industries, and is eager to further their career within a global organisation
• Understands the intricacies of operational processes within large-scale, global teams, and can identify opportunities for improvement
• Is highly proactive, can take ownership of tasks, and leads with initiative to anticipate the needs of the business
• Thrives both independently and in a team environment, with strong collaboration skills
• Is highly organised, with the ability to manage multiple priorities and drive projects to successful completion
• Is an adept problem solver, comfortable seeking clarity on complex issues, and quick to learn from feedback
• Demonstrates enthusiasm for challenges and is committed to delivering high-quality outcomes
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite and other relevant tools
• Strong organisational and project management skills, with the ability to streamline processes and optimise workflows
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to convey complex ideas clearly
• Logical thinking, strategic problem-solving abilities, and a deep understanding of operational efficiency
• Proven experience in managing teams or providing senior-level support across multiple functions

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 believingin and Championing Growth and Development for every individual. This commitment allows WPP Media employees toleveragethe extensive global WPP Media & WPP networks to pursue their passions, build vital professional connections, and learn at thecutting edgeof 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 eventsshowcasingteam 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 whenwe'retogether, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection in this open and supportive environment.That'swhywe’veadopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office around four days a week. If yourequireaccommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process. Please note that while our philosophy is the same across WPP, benefits may vary by office/country.

Please note this is a UK based role and requires individuals to have the right to work in this location

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

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Demographic Questions (UK)

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