Program Manager - Temporary Worker

Job Description: TEMP W2 on Dentsu Payroll, Hourly Non-Exempt Approximately 40 Hours/Week ASAP – 5/31/2027 Remote or Hybrid Depending on location Must work EST Travel Possible Must be US based Company Description: Merkle, a dentsu company, powers the experience economy. For more than 35 years, the company has put people at the heart of its approach to digital business transformation. As the only integrated experience consultancy in the world with a heritage in data science and business performance, Merkle delivers holistic, end-to-end experiences that drive growth, engagement, and loyalty. Merkle's expertise has earned recognition as a "Leader" by top industry analyst firms, in categories such as digital transformation and commerce, experience design, engineering and technology integration, digital marketing, data science, CRM and loyalty, and customer data management. With more than 16,000 employees, Merkle operates in 30+ countries throughout the Americas, EMEA, and APAC. Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Temporary Program Manager to lead and coordinate complex, multi-disciplinary marketing initiatives for our diverse portfolio of US and global clients. This role requires a strategic thinker who can navigate the complexities of large-scale marketing programs while ensuring seamless execution across multiple teams, geographies, and client stakeholders. The ideal candidate will have a proven track record of managing high-visibility programs in a fast-paced agency environment. Experience with a global CRM rollout and leading clients through the detailed steps and execution of the UAT process is essential. Key Responsibilities Program Strategy & Planning

• Develop comprehensive program strategies and roadmaps for complex, multi-channel marketing initiatives spanning digital, traditional, and experiential touchpoints
• Lead cross-functional planning sessions with creative, strategy, data analytics, technology, and media teams to ensure integrated program delivery
• Create and maintain detailed program charters, scope documents, and success metrics aligned with client business objectives

Client Relationship Management

• Serve as the primary point of contact for assigned client stakeholders, building trust and maintaining strategic relationships across multiple markets
• Facilitate regular client communications, including client stakeholder presentations, program reviews, and weekly status sessions
• Help the working team navigate complex client organizational structures and cultural considerations for global programs
• Proactively identify opportunities for program optimization based on client needs and team outcomes

Team Leadership & Coordination

• Lead matrixed teams of 15-30 professionals across multiple disciplines, including creative directors, strategists, data scientists, developers, and media planners
• Coordinate resources across regional offices and time zones to ensure consistent program delivery
• Mentor junior project managers, providing guidance on best practices and career development
• Foster collaboration between internal teams and external partners, including vendors, production companies, and technology providers

Program Execution & Delivery

• Oversee program execution, ensuring deliverables meet quality standards and deadlines across all workstreams
• Manage program budgets ranging from $1M-$3M+, including forecasting, tracking, and optimization recommendations
• Implement risk management strategies and contingency planning for complex, multi-phase programs
• Lead post-program retrospectives and capture best practices for future initiatives

Required Qualifications Education & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in marketing, Business Administration, Communications, or related field
• 5+ years of program management experience in marketing, advertising, or consulting environments
• Proven track record with programs where the agency acts as our clients’ “PMO” and is an integral part of their multi-vendor delivery system

Experience with a global CRM rollout and leading clients through the detailed steps and execution of the UAT process Technical Skills

• Advanced proficiency in project management tools (Jira a MUST, Zephyr a plus)
• Familiarity with marketing technology stacks including CRM systems, marketing automation platforms, data management and eCommerce tools
• Specific Microsoft Dynamics CRM experience a huge plus

Leadership & Communication

• Exceptional leadership skills with experience managing large, diverse teams in matrixed environments
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills, with experience presenting to executives
• Proven ability to influence and drive consensus among stakeholders with competing priorities
• Cultural sensitivity and experience working across international markets

This role offers the opportunity to work on cutting-edge marketing programs for world-class brands while developing your career at one of the industry's leading marketing agencies. The position requires someone who thrives in a dynamic, client-focused environment and can balance strategic thinking with hands-on execution excellence. Additional Information: The hourly pay range for this position is $55.01-$85.00. The hourly pay rate for the successful candidate is based on a variety of factors, including relevant experience, knowledge, skills, and other factors permitted by law. Temporary employees are eligible for paid holidays in accordance with dentsu policy, as well as safe and sick time. This position is not eligible for any other benefits or other compensation. To begin the application process, please click on the “Apply” button at the top of this job posting. Applications will be reviewed on an ongoing basis, and qualified candidates will be contacted for next steps. #LI-SG1 #LI-REMOTE #LI-HYBRID Location: Detroit - 3000 Town Center Brand: Merkle Time Type: Full time Contract Type: Temporary Dentsu is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees. We do this without regard to race, color, national origin, sex , sexual orientation, gender identity, age, pregnancy, childbirth or related medical conditions, ancestry, physical or mental disability, marital status, political affiliation, religious practices and observances, citizenship status, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Dentsu is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to, among others, individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans. If you need an accommodation because of a disability to search and apply for a career opportunity with us, please send an e-mail to View email address on joinrs.com by clicking on the link to let us know the nature of your accommodation request and your contact information. We are here to support you.