Account Director, Programmatic

About WPP Media

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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.

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2453 - Account Director, Programmatic

Role Summary and Impact

Lead a team of programmatic specialists to drive exceptional performance and client satisfaction through media buying and optimization at scale across key markets (US, UK, DE, FR and AU), with a focus on video and emerging digital platforms. Requires strong programmatic expertise, team leadership and a proactive approach to process improvement and innovation. You will also be responsible for driving digital growth across all channels, and seeing how we can drive strong business outcomes for the clients.

An opportunity to work across one of the world’s biggest travel brands - Booking.com. This account director position will offer the selected candidate an opportunity to grow their knowledge of international video and streaming media landscapes and investment strategy to ensure programmatic buys are well articulated and represented.

You will work as part of the Booking.com team reporting into the Global Digital Business Director, and will be mentored by the Programmatic Lead of the MSWW Channels & Solutions team

Responsibilities

Team Leadership & Development: Drive team performance and client success by leading, mentoring, and developing a team of programmatic specialists. Provide coaching, training, and regular feedback to enhance skills and problem-solving abilities. Foster a positive and collaborative environment and ensure adherence to company policies.

Client Relationship Management: Act as the primary point of contact and figurehead for assigned client accounts. Build and maintain strong client relationships based on trust, transparency, and effective communication. Run in-house training sessions for clients to enhance their understanding of programmatic advertising.

Operational Excellence: Streamline operations by developing and implementing efficient team processes. Oversee budget pacing, investment commitments, and reconcile monthly vendor invoices against platform delivery and actualized spend. Proactively identify and implement continuous improvement initiatives to enhance team performance and delivery.

Strategic Contribution and negotiation: Develop strategic budget allocations and annual channel plans (including partner-specific flighting, targeting, and KPIs) in response to upfront briefs. Enhance programmatic performance by contributing innovative ideas and projects. Continuously research and apply industry best practices, focusing on the US and EU video ecosystems to identify opportunities and effectively connect with core audiences

Collaboration: Maintain an active relationship with key vendors, keeping on top of, and informing client and mindshare teams of relevant evolution in collaboration with US and local MS market investment team.

Solutions Mindset: You will be proactive to lean into the client business and find ways to drive additional growth, this may be by optimisations, building custom solutions, leaning into activation and tactical understanding of channels outside of programmatic - like direct, partnerships, paid social.

Skills and Experience

Proven Programmatic Experience: Substantial hands-on experience in programmatic advertising, demonstrating a deep understanding of DSPs, SSPs, ad exchanges, and other programmatic platforms. Specify any required platforms (e.g., DV360, The Trade Desk).

Team Leadership & Management: Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, and develop high-performing teams, including experience with performance management, coaching, and mentoring.

Client Relationship Management: Proven ability to build and maintain strong client relationships, effectively communicate complex technical concepts, and manage client expectations.

Analytical & Problem-Solving Skills: Strong analytical skills with the ability to identify trends, analyse data, and develop effective solutions to complex problems.

Communication & Presentation Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills, including the ability to present information clearly and concisely to both technical and non-technical audiences.

Organizational & Time Management Skills: Exceptional organizational and time management skills with the ability to prioritize tasks, manage multiple projects simultaneously, and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.

Desirable

Industry Certifications : Relevant industry certifications, such as Google Marketing Platform Certification, are highly desirable.

Advanced Analytics Skills: Experience with advanced analytics tools and techniques, such as SQL or Python, to analyse large datasets and derive actionable insights.

Business Acumen : Strong business acumen with an understanding of key performance indicators (KPIs) and how to drive business growth through programmatic advertising.

Life at WPP Media & Benefits

Our passion for shaping the next era of media is powered by our commitment to Be Extraordinary, investing in our employees to inspire transformational creativity. We also Lead Optimistically, firmly believing in and Championing Growth and Development for every individual. This commitment allows WPP Media employees to leverage the extensive global WPP Media & WPP networks to pursue their passions, build vital professional connections, and learn at the cutting edge of marketing and advertising.

We Create an Open environment built on trust and respect, where everyone feels they belong and has opportunities to progress. This inclusive culture is fostered through a variety of employee resource groups and frequent in-office events showcasing team wins, sharing thought leadership, and celebrating holidays and milestone events. Our comprehensive benefits package reflects this commitment, including competitive medical, group retirement plans, vision, and dental insurance, significant paid time off, preferential partner discounts, and employee mental health awareness days.

WPP Media is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to characteristics. We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection in this open and supportive environment. 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.

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Job Code: 2354

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