Director, Media Planning

WPP Media•Toronto, ON

7d•Hybrid

About The Position

WPP Media is seeking a Director, Planning to lead integrated media strategy for Universal Pictures. This role is responsible for driving holistic, insight‑led planning across a portfolio of theatrical film releases, overseeing campaigns from strategy through execution and reporting. You will act as a senior client partner, providing leadership across planning, activation, and investment teams, while working closely with the Group Director and US counterparts to ensure seamless delivery, innovation, and best‑in‑class media solutions.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in Advertising, Marketing, Business, Communications, or equivalent experience
8+ years of media experience, with deep expertise across planning and integrated media
Strong understanding of all major media channels, including TV, digital, social, search, OOH, and emerging platforms
Proven ability to translate data into clear, compelling strategic recommendations
Confident, polished communicator with strong client‑facing presence

Nice To Haves

Experience working on entertainment or film accounts is a strong asset

Responsibilities

Lead development of holistic, film‑specific media plans aligned with Universal’s business and marketing objectives
Partner with the Group Director to ensure strategic alignment across all titles
Provide strong, insight‑driven POVs rooted in data, audience understanding, and communication goals
Present media strategies, performance updates, and recommendations to senior client stakeholders
Proactively track and share media, technology, and category trends
Maintain full accountability for all aspects of media plans, from strategy through execution and post‑campaign reporting
Oversee campaign activity across all films, ensuring excellence in delivery and optimization
Collaborate with Investment, Activation, and Performance teams to ensure best practices, market considerations, and effective budget allocation
Manage plan changes and communicate updates clearly and promptly to Universal
Support ad hoc initiatives including pacing, spend projections, and scenario planning
Lead, mentor, and develop a high‑performing planning team
Ensure clear delegation, accountability, and timely feedback
Act as backup for the Group Director and Associate Director as needed
Collaborate closely with US teams to ensure cross‑market alignment
Partner with Activation and Investment leadership to drive consistent processes and ways of working