Associate Director, Programmatic

Socket.dev; Los Angeles, New York (CA, NY); Hybrid; USD 75,000 - 180,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Hybrid work model

Competitive benefits package

Generous PTO & discounts

Job summary

WPP Media seeks an Associate Director, Programmatic to lead day-to-day programmatic operations and serve as the main contact for the account. You will shape strategic direction for digital campaigns and mentor staff within the programmatic team.

You will manage client relationships, drive data-driven recommendations, and coordinate across disciplines and partners to deliver innovative media plans. This role supports growth and open collaboration across regions.

Qualifications

• Formulate Programmatic strategy aligned with client objectives.
• Lead integration of programmatic efforts and present data-driven recommendations.
• Guide associates/managers on strategic thinking within media mix.
• Evaluate performance of Associates/Managers objectively.
• Develop standard methodologies to improve operational efficiencies.
• Coordinate work across disciplines and media partners; assist with agency integration.
• Provide support to regional offices/partners; keep senior management informed.

Responsibilities

• Formulate programmatic strategy for client businesses and ensure recommendations align with objectives.
• Lead integration of programmatic efforts and present data-driven recommendations.
• Lead team in thinking strategically about programmatic's role within the media mix.
• Evaluate performance of team members.
• Document and implement standard methodologies for efficiency.
• Coordinate with partners and other agencies to ensure cohesive campaigns.
• Support regional offices and partners where applicable.

Skills

Programmatic strategy

Team leadership

Client relationship mgmt

DSP platform experience

Media mix strategy

Operational efficiency

Education

Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Analytics, Marketing, Communications, Advertising

Tools

DV360

The Trade Desk

Amazon DSP

Yahoo DSP

Campaign Manager 360

IAS/DoubleVerify/MOAT

Job description

About WPP Media

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.

For more information, visit wppmedia.com.

Role Summary & Impact

As an Associate Director, Programmatic, you will be accountable for all day-to-day Programmatic operations and be the main point of contact on an account. You will provide strategic direction and leadership in our digital group to deliver the most effective and innovative communication plans. You will also manage the career paths of supporting staff within the Programmatic team.

Skills and Experience

• Formulate Programmatic strategy for client businesses and ensure that recommendations and decisions are consistent with client’s objectives and strategies.

• Assume a lead role in the integration of programmatic efforts and present innovative, business-building, and data-driven recommendations.

• Lead Associates and/or Managers in thinking strategically about programmatic’s role within the media mix and help our teams define tactical programmatic strategies and media plans to address client needs.

• Accurately, objectively and constructively evaluate the performance of Associate(s) and/or Manager(s).

• Facilitate the development and documentation of standard methodologies for improving operational efficiencies within the team and the group.

• Coordinate the work of our disciplines, industry groups and media partners; assist with integration of other client and GroupM agencies.

• Provide support to regional offices and/or partners, where applicable.

• Keep senior management apprised of key client opportunities, potential risks and other key nuances which affect the health of the business.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Analytics, Marketing, Communications, Advertising; OR equivalent professional work experience.

• 5+ Years experience planning/buying across major Demand-Side Platforms (DSPs), such as DV360, The Trade Desk, Amazon DSP, and Yahoo DSP.

• Experience with Ad Servers (e.g., Campaign Manager 360), Brand Safety/Verification technology (IAS, DoubleVerify, MOAT), SSPs, and Identity/Data solutions.

• Significant client-facing and relationship management experience is required.

• Prior experience managing a team; demonstrating the ability to train and grow junior members, and serving as a coach and mentor.

• Prior experience in an agency environment is highly desired.

• Exhibit passion through appropriate participation in team, agency, and industry initiatives.

Life at WPP Media & Benefits

Our passion for shaping the next era of media is powered by our commitment toBe Extraordinary, investing in our employees to inspire transformational creativity. We alsoLead Optimistically,firmly believingin andChampioning Growth and Developmentfor 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. WeCreate an Open environmentbuilt 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's why we've adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office around four days a week. If you require accommodations 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 read our Privacy Notice (https://www.wppmedia.com/pages/privacy-policy) for more information on how we process the information you provide.

The base salary range for this position at the time of this posting is indicated below. Individual compensation varies based on job-related factors, including location, business needs, level of responsibility, experience, and qualifications. We offer a competitive benefits package, go to https://mybenefits.wpp.com/public/welcome for more details.

US Pay Range: $75,000—$180,000 USD

Please read our Privacy Notice for more information on how we process the information you provide.