Data Lead

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.

2830 - SVP, Data & Tech Lead - GCS

Role Summary and Impact

WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands. We use the power of creativity to build better futures for our people, planet, clients and communities. WPP Media is WPP's global media collective, bringing together the best platforms, people, and partners to create limitless opportunities for growth in a world where media is Everywhere.

This role is within the Data, Tech, and Analytics (DTA) team, within the Global Client Solutions organisation. The Global Client Solutions (GCS) team is responsible for all global clients within WPP. DTA is responsible for servicing clients with best-in-class data solutions, data strategy, analytics, technology and AI solutions to drive client growth. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers. We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection.

SVP, Data & Tech Lead

As the Global Client Data & Tech Lead, you will take ownership of driving data-led transformation for one of WPP’s largest and most ambitious global clients. You will be at the forefront of enabling data, technology, and AI to create more impactful brand experiences and measurable business growth.

You will be a strategic partner to WPP Media’s Global Client Leads, defining what ‘data-driven’ marketing looks like for your client across Discovery, Planning, Activation, and Measurement. You will act as a senior advisor to CMOs and other key stakeholders and will guide them in building the data capabilities and infrastructure needed to achieve their marketing goals while ensuring responsible and effective use of data.

This role demands a leader who can combine thought leadership, operational expertise, strong line management, and a deep understanding of data and technology to deliver tangible results. You will assemble and lead a team of experts to implement strategies, deploy solutions, and build long‑term capability for your client.

Skills and Experience

• Own Client Data Narrative & Drive Growth: Build strategic relationships with key client stakeholders, including CMOs, IT, and Finance leaders. Develop a deep understanding of client objectives and advise on how data, technology, and AI can drive impact and growth. Act as a trusted advisor, helping clients navigate complex challenges and opportunities in data-driven marketing. Partner with the Global Account Director/Client President to co-create and execute the Global Client Growth Plan.
• Data Strategy Expertise: Assemble and lead a team of data strategists to define the role of data for media and advertising on the client business. Define how first‑party data should be collected, organized, and deployed across business units. Identify and execute data partnerships to enrich and extend first‑party data. Standardize data usage across markets and business units to achieve marketing objectives.
• Measurement & Optimization Frameworks: Oversee the design and implementation of measurement frameworks that balance short- and long‑term value creation. Define growth targets and metrics for marketing effectiveness. Define and deploy use of data science techniques to better predict growth from audience-based, omnichannel approaches. Introduce AI‑powered optimization tools to enhance efficiency and performance within and across channels. Ensure timely and actionable reporting for visibility into performance.
• Technology Consulting and Implementation: Assemble and lead a team to evaluate clients’ technology ecosystems and recommend improvements to enhance performance and reduce costs. Oversee the implementation of cloud data management, martech, adtech, AI, and analytics systems. Integrate WPP Data, Tech, and media solutions into the client’s broader technology stack to accelerate results.
• Capability Building and Education: Educate WPP client teams on WPP’s data capabilities, tools, and priorities. Provide visible leadership, coaching, and mentorship to inspire teams and foster innovation in data, technology, and AI.

WHAT YOU WILL NEED

• Relevant industry experience, including significant time in an agency environment.
• Proven experience operating at a senior client leadership level or engaging with high‑profile stakeholders.
• Demonstrated thought leadership and expertise in data, technology, and AI within the marketing industry.
• A track record of solving complex problems and delivering measurable business success through data‑driven strategies.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to influence teams, clients, and colleagues positively.
• Exceptional communication skills, capable of simplifying complex concepts for diverse audiences.
• Experience building and managing large, diverse teams of data, technology, and analytics specialists.
• Strategic and operational agility, with the ability to adapt quickly in dynamic environments.

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.

• competitive medical
• group retirement plans
• vision
• dental insurance
• significant paid time off
• preferential partner discounts
• 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.

Please note this is a UK based role and requires individuals to have the right to work in this location.

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While we appreciate all applications received, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.