Associate Director, Planning

About WPP Media 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.  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. For more information, visit wppmedia.com . Role Summary and Impact The Associate Director, Planning, is a senior leadership role responsible for driving the strategic planning product for key clients. You will lead client relationships at a senior level, manage a high-performing team, and contribute to the overall growth and success of the agency. • Act as the senior strategic lead and trusted advisor for key client relationships, steering their media investment to deliver business goals. • Lead and manage client WIPs, ensuring all relevant campaign and market updates are communicated and actioned. • Challenge clients and teams to drive innovation and tangible business results. • Oversee the quality of work delivered by the planning team, ensuring it meets the highest standards. • Lead contract negotiations, competitive reviews, and client business reviews. • Mentor and develop the planning team, building their capabilities and managing their career progression. • Contribute to new business development and pitches. Skills and experience • 8+ years of planning experience in a media agency. • Strong leadership skills with experience managing and grooming a team. • Proven track record in client management and building senior-level relationships. • Solid knowledge of all media channels and a proven ability to create integrated, strategic media recommendations. • Strong business and commercial acumen. • Excellent presentation, communication, and negotiation skills. • Deep understanding of the industry, business, brands, and consumers to lead client conversations with authority. 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