Senior Strategist (Commerce)

About the position

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.

Responsibilities

• Develop and articulate comprehensive engagement and retail strategies aligned with clients' overall marketing objectives and business goals.
• Lead the development of integrated channel and communications plans, ensuring consistent messaging and optimal reach across all relevant platforms (e.g., in-store, online, social media, email).
• Conduct thorough market research and competitive analysis to identify trends, opportunities, and threats in the retail landscape.
• Identify and analyze data, market trends, consumer behavior, and competitive landscape to inform strategic decisions.
• Stay abreast of emerging technologies and platforms within the commerce space and identify opportunities for innovation.
• Serve as a primary strategic contact, building strong relationships and fostering trust with clients.
• Present strategic recommendations and insights to clients in a clear, concise, and compelling manner.
• Proactively identify client needs and opportunities for growth.
• Manage client expectations and ensure strategic alignment across all projects.
• Collaborate closely with creative, media, technology, and account management teams to ensure seamless execution of strategic plans.
• Provide strategic guidance and support to internal teams throughout the project lifecycle.
• Facilitate internal workshops and brainstorming sessions to generate innovative ideas and solutions.
• Partner with media team to prepare and present performance reports to internal teams and clients, highlighting key findings and recommendations.

Requirements

• A seasoned strategist with 3-5 years of experience in retail strategy, engagement marketing, or a related field, preferably at an agency, CPG company, research company, or consulting firm.
• A proven expert in channel and communications planning, including developing and executing integrated marketing campaigns across multiple channels.
• Experienced in working in Commerce Strategy with key retailers and channels (Drug/Value, Grocery, Target, etc), with a strong understanding of their business models, marketing strategies, and customer base.
• A critical thinker who can develop innovative solutions to complex problems.
• Proficient with database tools and systems such as MRI Simmons, Mintel, Infegy, YPulse.
• An excellent communicator, able to articulate ideas clearly and concisely, both verbally and in writing.
• A relationship builder, able to collaborate effectively with team members, departments, vendors, and clients.
• Organized and able to effectively manage timelines and deliverables of multiple projects simultaneously.

Nice-to-haves

• Proven experience in developing and implementing successful retail and engagement strategies.
• Demonstrated ability to analyze data, market trends, and consumer behavior to inform strategic decisions.
• Strong understanding of the retail landscape and the evolving commerce space.
• Exceptional communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team in a fast-paced environment.
• A passion for innovation and a desire to stay ahead of the curve in the commerce industry.
• Critical thinking; drawing conclusions, find creative solutions, structured problem-solving approach.

Benefits

• Full spectrum of group health coverage options (medical, dental, vision).
• Generous 401k match (100% dollar-for-dollar match, up to 5% of salary contribution).
• Variety of paid time off offerings that reflect our investment in all aspects of your overall life balance and wellness.
• Growth-oriented mindset and plenty of training opportunities through VML and WPP.