Who We Are:

At VML, we are a beacon of innovation and growth in an ever-evolving world. Our heritage is built upon a century of combined expertise, where creativity meets technology, and diverse perspectives ignite inspiration. With the merger of VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson, we have forged a new path as a growth partner that is part creative agency, part consultancy, and part technology powerhouse.

Our global family now encompasses over 30,000 employees across 150+ offices in 64 markets, each contributing to a culture that values connection, belonging, and the power of differences. Our expertise spans the entire customer journey, offering deep insights in communications, commerce, consultancy, CRM, CX, data, production, and technology. We deliver end-to-end solutions that result in revolutionary work.

Who we are looking for:

We are looking for the right person who has a penchant for behavioral economics, psychology, sociology, data, retail, and unearthing unique consumer and shopper knowledge; one who has a passion for being a collaborator, culture vulture, trend spotter, creative muse, problem solver, story teller, and good human being.

What you’ll do:

Support the Strategy Director’s direction for key client projects and platforms, overseeing and providing focus for multi-functional teams by effectively defining business problems they can collectively solve
Work closely with brand, sales, consumer and retailer customer insights teams in manifesting commerce ideas that deliver breakthrough results
Work to align retailer segments with brand segments – providing rich dimension into humans’ hearts, minds, and behaviors
Ensure creative delivers against requirements of brand and customer communications
Represent the voice of the shopper to all stake holders to articulate commerce communication priorities
Support the creation of and write own inspirational and well-crafted creative briefs and present strategic story and support materials to both internal audiences of creatives, but also clients and outside partners

Who you are and what you bring:

BA or equivalent, MS in marketing a plus
6-7 years of experience in at least one aspect of strategic planning or related field
Applied experience with database tools and systems such as Simmons, MRI, Kantar, or equivalent
Understanding of human behavior and how it impacts purchase decision making
Ability to communicate clearly, thoroughly and succinctly both verbally and in written form to build relationships internally and with the client teams
Ability to analyze results, interpret data, draw sound conclusions, and develop insightful and actionable recommendations – with a comfort level using data as a tool for creative inspiration
Skilled in developing and delivering presentations tailored to specific audiences – preference will be given to those who prefer Keynote to PowerPoint
Interpersonal skills to selflessly inspire and elevate the work of those around them, and to work with different disciplines, resources, and personalities seamlessly
Curious, active, unconventional thinking with deft ability to apply cultural context to the work we deliver
Experience, command, and interest in how brands connect with people in today’s world

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, click WPP Benefits for more details.

$75,000—$180,000 USD

At VML, we are committed to fostering an all-inclusive work environment that is both rewarding and career-forward. Our Inclusion, Equity & Belonging initiatives, alongside the VML Foundation, reflect our dedication to giving back and making a positive impact in our communities and beyond. Our people are the heartbeat of our organization—creators, doers, innovators, makers, and thinkers—who drive not just marketing, but meaningful experiences that resonate in every action and interaction.

VML is a WPP Agency. For more information, please visit our website, and follow VML on our social channels via Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.

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Associate Director

Strategy, Commerce Strategy

Wunderman Thompson

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