Associate Director, Programmatic

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 & Impact

As an Associate Director, Programmatic, you will be accountable for all day-to-day Programmatic operations and be the main point of contact on an account. You will provide strategic direction and leadership in our digital group to deliver the most effective and innovative communication plans. You will also manage the career paths of supporting staff within the Programmatic team.

Skills and Experience

• Formulate Programmatic strategy for client businesses and ensure that recommendations and decisions are consistent with client’s objectives and strategies.

• Assume a lead role in the integration of programmatic efforts and present innovative, business-building, and data-driven recommendations.

• Lead Associates and/or Managers in thinking strategically about programmatic’s role within the media mix and help our teams define tactical programmatic strategies and media plans to address client needs.

• Accurately, objectively and constructively evaluate the performance of Associate(s) and/or Manager(s).

• Facilitate the development and documentation of standard methodologies for improving operational efficiencies within the team and the group.

• Coordinate the work of our disciplines, industry groups and media partners; assist with integration of other client and GroupM agencies.

• Provide support to regional offices and/or partners, where applicable.

• Keep senior management apprised of key client opportunities, potential risks and other key nuances which affect the health of the business.

• Bachelor’s Degree in Business, Analytics, Marketing, Communications, Advertising; OR equivalent professional work experience.

• 5+ Years experience planning/buying across major Demand-Side Platforms (DSPs), such as DV360, The Trade Desk, Amazon DSP, and Yahoo DSP.

• Experience with Ad Servers (e.g., Campaign Manager 360), Brand Safety/Verification technology (IAS, DoubleVerify, MOAT), SSPs, and Identity/Data solutions.

• Significant client-facing and relationship management experience is required.

• Prior experience managing a team; demonstrating the ability to train and grow junior members, and serving as a coach and mentor.

• Prior experience in an agency environment is highly desired.

• Exhibit passion through appropriate participation in team, agency, and industry initiatives.

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. Please note that while our philosophy is the same across WPP, benefits may vary by office/country.

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The base salary range for this position at the time of this posting is indicated below. Individual compensation varies based on job-related factors, including location, business needs, level of responsibility, experience, and qualifications. We offer a competitive benefits package, go to for more details.

US Pay Range

$75,000—$180,000 USD

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