Back to all jobs

- Seniority
- Lead
About the role
<div class="content-intro"><p><strong>About WPP Media</strong></p>
<p>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 our pioneering agentic marketing platform, WPP Open – we help clients navigate change, capture opportunity, and deliver transformational growth. </p>
<p>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.</p>
<p>For more information, visit <a href="wppmedia.com">wppmedia.com</a>.</p></div><p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">1859 - Business Director, Planning</span></strong></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">About WPP Media</span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">WPP is the creative transformation company. We use the power of creativity to build better futures for our people, planet, clients and communities. For more information, visit wpp.com.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">WPP Media is WPP’s global media collective. In a world where media is everywhere and in everything, we bring the best platform, people, and partners together to create limitless opportunities for growth. For more information, visit wppmedia.com</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">About WPP 650</span></strong> <span data-ccp-props="{"469777462":[2616],"469777927":[0],"469777928":[1]}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Join an award-winning team at the heart of UK government, where your work will genuinely shape lives. As part of WPP 650 you’ll be part of a supportive, collaborative environment that values curiosity, kindness, and growth. Together, we use behaviour change principles to design smarter services, influence better decisions, and help millions of people across the country.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"469777462":[2616],"469777927":[0],"469777928":[1]}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Named WPP 650, after the 650 UK constituencies, the name is a reminder that our work must reflect the full breadth of the country, every community, every audience. No two days are the same. The challenges are complex, the problems worth solving, and the learning constant. You’ll tackle issues that matter, alongside talented colleagues who care deeply about what they do. It’s demanding – but always rewarding.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"469777462":[2616],"469777927":[0],"469777928":[1]}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">WPP 650 is a bespoke agency unit within WPP, dedicated to serving the evolving communications needs of government clients. We bring together the best of WPP's talent, technology, and insights to deliver impactful, modern, and effective public communications. We are at the forefront of reimagining how government engages with its citizens.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">This is meaningful work with real-world impact – the kind you can point to with pride.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Role Summary and Impact</span></strong> <span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-charstyle="normaltextrun" data-ccp-charstyle-defn="{"ObjectId":"ac0262f4-8a9e-5820-b908-2d943c5f7113|1","ClassId":1073872969,"Properties":[201342446,"1",201342447,"5",201342448,"1",201342449,"1",469777841,"Aptos",469777842,"",469777843,"Aptos",469777844,"Aptos",201341986,"1",469769226,"Aptos",268442635,"22",469775450,"normaltextrun",201340122,"1",134233614,"true",469778129,"normaltextrun",335572020,"1",469778324,"Default Paragraph Font"]}">About the role:</span></span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">The planning team are the guardians of creating industry leading, unrivalled work at WPP 650. We are central conduits to all specialists, striving to push boundaries and have a positive impact on consumers and brand.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"335559739":0}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">WPP 650 is looking for a <strong>Business Director</strong></span><span data-contrast="auto"> to join our growing planning team, to drive forward our planning output and help to create amazing work for our clients.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"335559739":0}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-charstyle="normaltextrun">In this role, you will:</span></span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Media Planning Craft: </span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<ul>
<li><span data-contrast="auto">Lead the WPP 650 planning output on your specific client to create unrivalled work.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></li>
<li><span data-contrast="auto">Be able to articulate the strategic approach into media behaviours and train and support the wider team.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></li>
<li><span data-contrast="auto">Need strategic thinking on how we utilise tools and specialism outside of planning on response i.e. sources of growth, measurement, learning agenda, data, etc</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></li>
<li><span data-contrast="auto">Build presence outside of current teams and drive visibility of planning team within the wider agency.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></li>
<li><span data-contrast="auto">Bring a fresh perspective to planning approaches including the use of different tools, new insights and coach others to challenge the status quo.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></li>
</ul>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Effective communication:</span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<ul>
<li><span data-contrast="auto">Overall responsibility for the development of all planning responses, ensuring we are developing unrivalled work in all executions.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></li>
<li><span data-contrast="auto">Manage senior client relationships, understanding what they need for their business and how to drive growth for them.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></li>
<li><span data-contrast="auto">Manage the planning team ensuring the have clear personal objectives, structure and regular reviews.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></li>
</ul>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Idea creation and storytelling: </span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<ul>
<li><span data-contrast="auto">Build and develop relationship with media owners and look for opportunities to create unrivalled work</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></li>
<li><span data-contrast="auto">Have an advanced commercial understanding of WPP 650’s products and services. Understanding which are suitable for their clients and how sell in solutions. </span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></li>
<li><span data-contrast="auto">Be a story telling expert, driving added value with the team and quality boosting output.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></li>
</ul>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">Core skills:</span></span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Practice Area Knowledge – Advanced- </span></strong><span data-contrast="auto">Demonstrates advanced understanding of the industry as well as future trends. Serves as an internal consultant/expert on at least some tools and technology. Effectively guides junior team members on advanced elements. Works with leadership team to develop new solutions and/or spot new applications.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">Problem Solving – Advanced -</span></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"> Performs complex analyses of a range of information and </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">identifies</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"> issues before they become problems; helps others think about how to define or redefine complex problems. Supports business leaders to find solutions and </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">evaluates</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"> others’ solutions to determine the best way forward. Understand how to resolve escalated issues and </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">coaches</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"> others to </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">problem solve</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">. Manages escalations.</span></span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">Stakeholder Management – Advanced - </span></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">Capitali</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">z</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">es</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"> on deep understanding of (current or potential) client and agency </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">organi</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">s</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">ational</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"> structures, business processes, strategic </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">objectives</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"> and challenges </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">in order to</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"> </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">anticipate</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"> and meet their needs. Demonstrates expert knowledge and </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">monitors</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"> the client’s industry </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">in order to</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"> create effective solutions. Advises key stakeholders by continuously helping them to successfully navigate through critical business changes.</span></span><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"></span></span><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"> Uses strong deep </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">expertise</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"> and contextual awareness to explore complex issues with stakeholders and </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">provide</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"> trusted advice, </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">deliverables</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"> and campaign KPIs.</span></span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Effective Communication – Advanced - </span></strong><span data-contrast="auto">Leads the delivery of relevant and accurate information to drive maximum impact. Consistently delivers communications to influence and educate all levels of seniority, appropriately judging the demands of the situation. Creatively develops presentations and comms to help with the understanding/education of complex information. Guides others on the best practices and approaches for creating clear, concise and organized communication materials to convey plans in a user-friendly way.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">Campaign Management – Expert -</span></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"> Sets the standard for accuracy and thoroughness so that sufficiently detailed information is logged correctly</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">. </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">Balances short-term considerations with </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">long-term goals and ensures that critical deliverables are met</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">. </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">Manages multiple overlapping timelines and competing demands, weighing the needs of different stakeholders across the business to </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">determine</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"> priorities for parallel projects and sets priorities according to business needs.</span></span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">Compelling storytelling – Advanced -</span></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"> Lead and direct the creation of a story, taking into account client knowledge levels and needs.</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"> Applies deep </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">expertise</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"> and sound judgement to persuade key decision makers on recommendation, considering all implications. Designs differentiated communications (content focus, style, presentation, etc.) for various internal and external audiences.</span></span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">Ideas Creation – Expert - </span></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">Develops strategies to bring </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">new technologies</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">, </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">innovations</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"> and products to life</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">. </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">Challenges the client and team in innovating and designing </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">new solutions</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">, </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">methods</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"> and products to remain competitive and lead the industry.</span></span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">Comms Planning – Advanced -</span></span></strong><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"> High technical knowledge of all media touchpoints as well as how they interplay and future trends</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">. </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">Serves as a consultant and quality controls plans, strategies and frameworks that leave the building</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">. </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">Strategic learnings and insights about business impact (not just media metrics)</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">. </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">Development of directional media strategy/platform</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">. </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">Developing comms planning skills amongst </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">wider</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph"> community</span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">. </span><span data-ccp-parastyle="paragraph">Looks for alternative solutions to problems and constantly challenges received norms in a spirit of positive provocation.</span></span><span data-ccp-props="{"134233117":false,"134233118":false,"201341983":0,"335559738":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":240}"> </span></p>
<p><strong><span data-contrast="auto">Life at WPP Media & Benefits</span></strong><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Our passion for shaping the next era of media includes investing in our employees to help them do their best work, and we’re just as committed to employee growth as we are to responsible media investment. WPP Media employees can tap into the global WPP Media & WPP networks to pursue their passions, grow their networks, and learn at the cutting edge of marketing and advertising. We have a variety of employee resource groups and host frequent in-office events showcasing team wins, sharing thought leadership, and celebrating holidays and milestone events. Our benefits include competitive medical, group retirement plans, vision, and dental insurance, significant paid time off, preferential partner discounts, and employee mental health awareness days.</span><span data-contrast="auto"> </span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="none">WPP Media is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to particular 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.</span> <br> <br><span data-contrast="none">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 around four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.</span><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><em><span data-contrast="auto">Please note this is a UK based role and requires individuals to have the right to work in this location</span></em><span data-ccp-props="{}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-contrast="auto">Please read our Privacy Notice (</span><a href="https://www.wppmedia.com/pages/privacy-policy"><span data-contrast="none"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">https://www.wppmedia.com/pages/privacy-policy</span></span><span data-contrast="auto"><span data-ccp-charstyle="Hyperlink">)</span></span></a><span data-contrast="auto"> for more information on how we process the information you provide.</span><span data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":276}"> </span></p>
<p><span data-ccp-props="{}">#LI-Promoted</span></p><div class="content-conclusion"><p></p>
<p><span class="TextRun SCXW227196529 BCX8" lang="EN-CA" data-contrast="auto"><span class="NormalTextRun SCXW227196529 BCX8">Please read our <a href="https://www.wppmedia.com/pages/privacy-policy#:~:text=WPP%20Media%20Privacy%20Notice%20for%20Recruitment">Privacy Notice</a></span></span><span class="TextRun SCXW227196529 BCX8" lang="EN-CA" data-contrast="auto"> <span class="NormalTextRun SCXW227196529 BCX8">for more information on how we process the information you provide.</span></span><span class="EOP SCXW227196529 BCX8" data-ccp-props="{"201341983":0,"335559739":0,"335559740":276}"> </span></p></div>
Perks & benefits
- Dental Insurance
- Paid Time Off
753,000+ hidden jobs like this
WPP Media and thousands of companies post here first — often days before LinkedIn or Indeed. Your first 5 applications are free; go Pro to apply without limits.
Everything Pro unlocks:
- Unlimited applications — free stops at 5
- Track every application in one place
- Apply straight to the source, one click
- Save & organize roles you love
- Roles pulled from company boards before the big sites