Planning Director

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.

ROLE SUMMARY

The Planning Director is responsible for the development of brand and communication strategies to support our clients’ business needs. The incumbent focuses on assessing the client’s challenge and proposing the optimal solution based on the most relevant marketing discipline(s). In this role, the incumbent supports the Account Management team by providing market insight, discipline knowledge, and research analytics.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Develop strategic solutions that address the client’s business challenges/goals.
2. Develop and write briefs based on client briefs to address any issues/opportunities clients may have.
3. Support the development of overall master and sub-brand strategy by conducting brand and competitive audits, executive interviews, and research analytics.
4. Use research to derive insights, measure results of campaigns, and explore new opportunities for brands.
5. Develop ad-hoc communication plans by responding to short-term marketplace challenges.
6. Provide input as needed during creative development to ensure that the strategic direction is correctly translated into creative work.
7. Support the development of strategy planning tools and methodologies.
8. Train and mentor junior planners on using the agency process and methodology to optimize their skills and talent.

SKILLS REQUIRED

1. Minimum of 8 years’ experience in planning.
2. Hands-on experience in planning at every stage of brand and communication strategy.
3. Keen interest and experience in analyzing marketing problems, brand tracking research, and spotting opportunities to develop the brand.
4. Experience in analyzing trends in the industry on an ongoing basis.
5. Work alongside the account management team to support in developing highly creative campaigns.
6. Good oral and written communication skills.
7. Successful track record managing multiple client assignments.

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.