Project Manager

At AKQA (part of WPP) we blend the imaginative application of art and science to create beautiful ideas, products, and services. With an entrepreneurial and collaborative approach, we design adaptive digital services and applications that capture the imagination and deliver impressive returns for our clients.

The Delivery team is at the heart of every project, ensuring work is delivered to the highest quality, on time, and that clients receive the greatest possible value from their investment. We build strong relationships, champion collaboration, and foster open communication between project teams and clients. AKQA’s process and governance standards are industry-leading, providing the tools, training, and support to make this possible.

Working with globally recognized and highly respected brands, the Project Manager is responsible for the full lifecycle of medium-sized client projects, from initial idea through to successful delivery. You will translate client needs into clear project plans, accurately estimate and budget projects, and effectively manage both the project and the team. This is a client-facing role requiring effective communication and management across all internal disciplines.

Located in Berlin, Germany, as part of the AKQA team, you will work in an environment that fosters a dynamic and meritocratic culture, surrounded by some of the brightest minds in their fields.

ROLE REQUIREMENTS

• Lead a diverse range of fast-moving global projects, often involving innovation, complex technology, and intricate organization.
• Successfully deliver high-quality projects, ensuring they are on time and within budget.
• Define what success looks like for each project, in agreement with the client, and ensure the team achieves those goals.
• Identify and tailor the most appropriate project structure for each phase, clearly suggesting the most suitable approach in the project scope.
• Collaborate with team leads to accurately estimate projects based on the most suitable model (e.g., fixed-price, capped time and materials).
• Develop thorough and clear project scopes of work that serve as the foundation for your projects. Define and agree on the scope internally and with clients, ensuring projects are delivered within these agreed boundaries.
• Forecast resource requirements across teams and assist with proactive resource planning.
• Collaborate closely with the Creative and Strategy teams for the successful delivery of campaigns for a variety of German and international brands.
• Utilize AKQA's management information system to effectively create, track, and monitor overall project progress, burn rates, and financial status. Proactively highlight and resolve potential overruns or financial issues.
• Author well-crafted Project Status Reports, ensuring timely submission and accuracy.
• Present and communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, to internal teams and external clients.
• Manage multiple suppliers, partners, and client teams to ensure optimal outcomes for both clients and AKQA. Keep stakeholders informed of project progress at all times and manage expectations proactively.
• Continuously strive to improve AKQA’s delivery practices, processes, and team efficiency.

QUALITIES AND CHARACTERISTICS

• Proven experience leading complex projects, such as digital and print marketing campaigns, content production, etc.  
• Previous agency experience in a fast-paced environment is preferred.
• An accomplished communicator who builds confidence with internal teams and earns the trust of clients.
• Able to build strong relationships and achieve results, even under challenging circumstances.
• Demonstrated ability to work well under pressure with a high degree of flexibility and adaptability. Self-motivated and comfortable working independently with little oversight.
• Possess strong business acumen and sound judgment.
• A customer-focused mindset, unwavering commitment to quality, and a drive to continually improve processes and outcomes.
• Excellent attention to detail.
• Commitment to high standards of excellence and integrity.
• Fluency in English (German is nice to have but not mandatory)
• Strong Excel skills, including understanding of basic formulas.

We provide an extensive range of benefits. To find out more click here.