Senior Associate, Planning

Description

Position at Wavemaker

Senior Associate, Planning - Wavemaker/WPP+

FLSA Status: Non-Exempt

Position Summary:

The Senior Associate, Planning plays a crucial role in the development and execution of media plans for the Johnson & Johnson account. This role requires a strong understanding of media channels, research tools, and budget management, along with excellent communication and collaboration skills. The Senior Associate will work closely with the planning team, internal teams, and clients to ensure effective and innovative media strategies. This role offers a unique opportunity to contribute to a dynamic and high-profile account within a fast-paced agency environment.

• Analyze media landscape, marketing data, and competitive spending to inform media plan development.

• Evaluate and utilize media data for plan execution, including audience delivery, schedules, and rates.

• Contribute to media strategy development in collaboration with planning team members.

• Attend client meetings, taking notes of plan recommendations and updates.

• Manage day-to-day plan changes and maintenance, collaborating with planning team.

• Develop and maintain media flowcharts using specialized software (e.g., Media Tools).

• Manage budget tracking and reconciliation, ensuring accurate and timely reporting.

• Assist in the development of media POVs and strategic recommendations.

• Proficiently utilize media research tools (e.g., IMS, NMI, Nielsen) to analyze data and draw actionable insights.

• Evaluate digital performance and identify optimization opportunities.

• Conduct audience research using various tools and methodologies.

• Build strong relationships with internal WPP+ teams.

• Effectively communicate media plans and performance updates to stakeholders.

• Collaborate with account teams to ensure alignment between media strategy and overall marketing objectives.

• Proactively seek and incorporate feedback to improve media plan effectiveness.

• Stay abreast of industry trends and emerging media channels.

• Participate in media training sessions and share knowledge with team members.

• Contribute to the development and implementation of best practices within the team.
• Assist in training and development of junior staff.

• Media Research Tools: Proficiency in using industry-standard tools for media research (e.g., IMS, NMI, Nielsen, comScore) and audience insights (MRI, MARS, SIMMONS).

• Media Flowcharting: Experience creating and managing media flowcharts using specialized software for tracking and visualizing information (e.g., Media Tools).

• Budget Management: Proven ability to manage and track multi-million dollar budgets

• Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and PowerPoint.

• Experience with digital media planning and buying.

• Knowledge of various media channels (e.g., TV, digital, print, OOH, radio/audio).

• Eagerness to Learn: Demonstrated intellectual curiosity and a proactive approach to learning new skills and staying updated on industry trends.

• Self-Starter: Ability to work independently, take initiative, and manage multiple projects simultaneously.

• Active Listener: Strong listening skills and the ability to effectively understand and respond to client and team member needs.

• Comfortable with Ambiguity: Ability to thrive in a dynamic environment with evolving priorities and navigate uncertain situations effectively as new team develops processes and new ways of working.

• Proactive Problem Solver: Ability to identify and address challenges proactively, seeking solutions and escalating issues when necessary.

• Experience working with pharmaceutical or healthcare clients with preference to Immunology or Oncology brand experience.

• Knowledge of Johnson & Johnson's brand portfolio and marketing objectives.
• Experience with advanced analytics and data visualization tools.