Media Manager, Programmatic

VML South Africa; Chicago (IL); On-site; USD 45,000 - 100,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive benefits

Job summary

VML is seeking a Media Manager, Programmatic to support a large automotive client. You will build, activate, and optimize programmatic campaigns across DSPs, analyze performance, and deliver insights to drive client KPIs.

Based in Chicago, IL, the role requires 1–3 years in digital programmatic media, experience with DV360 or TheTradeDesk, and strong reporting skills. We offer a competitive benefits package and opportunities to grow within a leading global network.

Qualifications

• 1–3 years in digital programmatic media.
• Agency experience preferred.
• Experience with DSPs such as DV360 or TheTradeDesk.

Responsibilities

• Build, activate, and optimize programmatic campaigns.
• Analyze performance and provide insights.
• Create client-facing reports on campaign results.
• Support senior team with bidding strategies and tagging.
• Present recommendations to managers and clients.

Skills

Campaign management

Programmatic media

Data analysis

Attention to detail

Communication

Tools

DV360

TheTradeDesk

DCM Trafficking

Job description

VML is a leading creative company that combines brand experience, customer experience, and commerce, creating connected brands to drive growth. VML is celebrated for its innovative and award-winning human-first work for clients including AstraZeneca, Colgate-Palmolive, Dell, Ford, Microsoft, Nestlé, The Coca-Cola Company, and Wendy's. In 2026, VML was named Campaign’s Global Network of the Year and ranked #2 Creative Network of the Year at Cannes Lions. VML’s global network spans 55+ markets with principal offices in Buenos Aires, Kansas City, London, New York, São Paulo, Shanghai and Singapore.

VML is part of WPP, the trusted growth partner for the world's leading brands. Powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing platform WPP Open, WPP unites cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, creativity, production, enterprise solutions and expert strategic counsel.

Who we are looking for:

VML is seeking a Media Manager, Programmatic to support a large and innovative automotive client. You will responsible for building, activating, and optimizing programmatic campaigns based upon client KPIs, as well as maintaining and analyzing campaign performance data.

What you’ll do:

• Working in multiple DSPs such as DV360 and TheTradeDesk
• Management of client campaigns including; strategy, issuing RFPs, managing optimization, trafficking and reporting to assure client success
• Creates and refines internal and client-facing performance reports in-depth analyses of marketing campaigns
• Provides frequent progress reports regarding online marketing efforts and performance metrics to clients
• Presents recommendations to managers, clients and prospects
• Assists in the management of tagging and tracking URLs
• Executes media plans within DSPs, publishers, networks, and managed partner relationships

Who you are:

• Ability to manage high volume of campaigns with large budgets simultaneously with incredible attention to detail
• Ability to handle multiple tasks with effective resolution of conflicting priorities
• Exceptional problem-resolution skills including the ability to think creatively in the development of ideas/solutions
• Proactive, self-starter willing to learn new things
• Ability to work well in individually as well as a team
• Excellent interpersonal skills, including strong written and verbal communication skills
• Great organizational and time management skills

What you’ll need:

• About 1-3 years in digital with a focus in Programmatic Media, agency experience required
• Experience in DSPs such as DV360 or TheTradeDesk required
• Understanding of traditional banners, mobile, video, social and cross device media tactics
• Familiarity with DCM Trafficking and Reporting or other 3rd party ad servers
• Strong software use skills including in-depth knowledge of other Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, and Access), and aptitude to quickly learn new tools

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.

$45,000—$100,000 USD

• We offer a competitive benefits package.

If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.

WPP (VML) is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.