Program Director, Chicago, Illinois

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.

VML is looking for an experienced Program Director who is a proactive problem solver that can manage team dynamics, track project financial performance, clearly communicate across a global network of internal and external teams, and drive progression towards dates.

RESPONSIBILITIES

• Provide Global PMO support across global markets, integrated agency teams and client functions throughout the duration of all campaign phases (strategy, creative development, production, etc.)
• Deliver and maintain individual and program-level schedules in accordance with agency processes and client needs
• Keep all internal and external partners on track against key milestones
• Lean into client's internal processes where identified to help keep them on track
• Maintain direct client relationships with client project owners and client management leadership
• Support scoping and estimation exercises with Client Engagement teams
• Act as key point of contact and liaison for inter-agency network and regional teams
• Manage and mentor junior level staff as needed

As part of the WPP Group, VML offers one of the best overall compensation packages in the business.

SKILLS & EXPERIENCE

• Several years' experience managing campaign or creative programs at global scale
• Ability to provide proactive and assertive leadership in problem-solving
• Consensus builder with proficiency in communications to drive alignment on program status, financial considerations, and clear actions
• Strong interpersonal skills and able to resolve conflict with productive outcomes
• Ability to effectively work across departments, regions, and teams with diplomacy and a firm understanding of other's roles and perspectives
• Ability to manage multiple work-streams (projects) effectively and efficiently
• Ability to view problems in context at the system and organization and align solutions with the strategic direction of our clients and company
• Proactive, adaptable, and flexible
• Strong attention to detail
• Demonstrable ability to operate under tight deadlines with minimal waste
• Ability to manage workload with minimal supervision
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Experience managing one or more junior staff members

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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