Managing Director Strategy
About The Position
The Managing Director, Strategy is a key leadership role within the VML North America Brand Strategy team. This individual will lead an iconic global portfolio of CPG brands, overseeing and delivering strategic approaches that drive innovative and effective outcomes. This role requires exceptional client management skills, a proven ability to develop actionable insights, and a passion for fostering team growth and collaboration. Proven experience working across an integrated team inclusive of media and communications strategy is a must. The Managing Director will actively contribute to business growth by identifying and championing opportunities for expanded strategic engagement with clients.
Requirements
- Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Advertising, Business, or a related field.
- 12+ years of experience in brand strategy, advertising, or marketing consulting.
- CPG experience is essential.
- Proven leadership of global, integrated agency teams.
- Demonstrated success in managing and mentoring strategic teams.
- Expertise in cultivating and maintaining senior-level client relationships.
- Track record of developing and executing innovative brand strategies that deliver measurable business results.
- Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
- Proficiency in primary research methodologies and standard industry tools (e.g., MRI, GWI, ComScore, Kantar), including custom consumer research design and execution.
- Familiarity with award submission processes (e.g., Effie) and a strong understanding of effectiveness measurement.
Nice To Haves
- MBA or other relevant advanced degree.
- Experience working with a variety of clients across different industries in a global agency environment.
- An understanding of digital marketing and emerging technologies.
Responsibilities
- Oversee strategic direction and execution across a client portfolio, ensuring alignment with client business objectives.
- Design and manage original primary research initiatives to uncover actionable consumer insights that inform strategic recommendations.
- Champion and integrate VML's strategic tools and established processes, such as the creative brief, WPP Open (VML’s proprietary AI platform), and the “Growth Challenge” (VML’s proprietary evaluation tool to map client account priorities for growth and strategic excellence) across teams.
- Mastery of AI tools and techniques used to enhance strategic development and execution, and ability to teach and train teams on best practices for implementation.
- Develop innovative solutions to complex business challenges, demonstrating a forward-thinking approach.
- Present compelling strategic narratives to clients and internal teams, effectively articulating complex ideas and inspiring action.
- Develop and champion strategic frameworks, methodologies, and perspectives that position VML as a leader in brand strategy.
- Champion and craft award entries (e.g., Effie, Cannes) within the client portfolio, showcasing the impact and effectiveness of the team's strategic work to increase award wins year on year.
- Contribute to new business pitches by providing strategic direction and developing compelling narratives that resonate with prospective clients.
- Work closely with the Client Leadership team to ensure appropriate scoping of projects, managing resources effectively and delivering projects on time and within budget.
- Cultivate and maintain strong, trusted advisor relationships with key client stakeholders. Collaborate with VML Client Leadership to expand strategy's presence and impact across the client portfolio.
- Lead, inspire, and mentor a team of integrated strategists, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
- Provide guidance and support to team members in their professional development.
Benefits
- Competitive benefits package
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What This Job Offers
Job Type
Full-time
Career Level
Manager
