Business Unit Director

VML South Africa; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 750,000 - 1,000,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading creative agency in Johannesburg is seeking a Business Unit Director to manage client relationships and drive strategic planning. The ideal candidate will possess a strong marketing background with proven experience developing client strategies and leading high-performing teams. This role requires excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a focus on delivering high-quality service and achieving client objectives. A hybrid work environment is supported.

Qualifications

• 2-3 years of experience as a Business Unit Director, preferably within an agency setting.
• Minimum 12 years in a marketing communications role encompassing strategy, advertising, research, or marketing.
• Deep understanding of the digital marketing landscape.

Responsibilities

• Serve as the primary point of contact and trusted advisor for assigned clients.
• Develop and implement integrated communication plans and strategies.
• Oversee the execution of all client projects, ensuring timely delivery.

Skills

Client relationship management

Strategic planning

Excellent communication

Team management

Problem-solving

Education

Brand management or marketing communications diploma or degree

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Department: Client & Business Leadership

Location: Johannesburg , South Africa

Last Updated: 8/5/2025

Requisition ID: 11357

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.

What you’ll do:

Client Relationship Management

• Serve as the primary point of contact and trusted advisor for assigned clients.
• Build and maintain strong, enduring client relationships based on trust, transparency, and mutual respect.
• Proactively identify and address client needs and challenges.
• Manage client expectations and ensure consistent delivery of high-quality service.
• Lead client presentations and meetings.

Strategic Planning & Execution

• Develop and implement integrated communication plans and strategies that align with client business objectives.
• Oversee the execution of all client projects, ensuring timely delivery and adherence to budget.
• Lead the creative development process, providing clear briefs and constructive feedback.
• Monitor campaign performance and provide regular reporting to clients.
• Responsible for the overall profitability of assigned client accounts.
• Develop and manage budgets, forecasts, and resource allocation.
• Monitor and control project costs, ensuring adherence to agreed-upon budgets.
• Identify and pursue opportunities for organic growth within existing client accounts.
• Manage, mentor, and develop a high-performing client service team.
• Provide regular coaching and feedback to team members.
• Conduct performance reviews and identify training needs.
• Foster a positive and collaborative team environment.
• Oversee all HR-related matters for the team, including recruitment, onboarding, and performance management.
• Drive the integration of agency offerings across different departments and disciplines.
• Collaborate effectively with internal teams (creative, media, digital, etc.) to ensure seamless project execution.
• Share knowledge and best practices across the agency.

What you’ll need:

• Brand management or marketing communications diploma or degree or equivalent.
• 2-3 years of experience as a Business Unit Director, preferably within an agency setting.
• Minimum 12 years in a marketing communications role encompassing strategy, advertising, research, or marketing.
• Proven ability to develop and maintain strong client relationships.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Strong business acumen and financial management skills.
• Experience managing and developing high-performing teams.
• Ability to think strategically and solve problems creatively.
• Deep understanding of the digital marketing landscape.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and relevant industry software.

We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we’ve adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office an average of four days a week. 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.

When you click "Submit Application", this will send any information you add below to VML. Before you do this, we think it's a good idea to read through ourRecruitment Privacy Policy . California residents should read ourCalifornia Recruitment Privacy Notice . This explains what we do with your personal data when you apply for a role with us, and, how you can update the information you have provided us with or how to remove it.

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When you click "Submit Application", this will send any information you add below to VML. Before you do this, we think it's a good idea to read through our Recruitment Privacy Policy . California residents should read our California Recruitment Privacy Notice . This explains what we do with your personal data when you apply for a role with us, and, how you can update the information you have provided us with or how to remove it.