Merkle is a leading data-driven, technology-enabled, global performance marketing agency that specialises in the delivery of unique, personalised customer experiences across platforms and devices. We call it ‘people-based’ marketing, and with over 25 years’ experience, we are proud to be recognised as a Global leader.

Merkle’s heritage in data, technology and analytics is the foundation for our understanding of consumer insights that drives our people-based marketing strategies. With our expertise, we can offer our clients content-driven, contextual and compelling customer journeys and experiences that drive business growth.

With our Head Office in Columbia, Maryland and offices US wide, we continue to grow at a rapid rate across Europe and Asia. In 2016, the agency joined the Dentsu Aegis Network, one of the world’s biggest Global media companies.

The Role

Are you passionate about integrated marketing strategy? We’re expanding our planning capabilities in media both through the funnel and down the line and we’re looking for a strong Brand/Communications Lead to lead both proposition development, commercial lead generation and client coordination. In addition, you will lead the planning & digital strategy cycle on one of our key accounts that operate across multiple services (Search, Programmatic, Paid Social and Web Analytics etc.) and will be responsible for ensuring alignment and strategic development of integrated marketing initiatives to meet client marketing and business objectives, with ownership of the planning cycle. An appreciation of data driven marketing is essential and the desire to progress this practice both in concept and in activation, you’ll work closely with Paid Media delivery and Media Science teams to both achieve this and ensure we’re at the cutting edge of our field.

The role will require contribution to the growth of the department and commercial opportunities through development of capabilities, best practice, training materials, and cross-department initiatives:

• Leading the development of go-to-market integrated marketing proposition
• Encourages innovation, process, and development of our media planning & ATL strategy capabilities
• Advocate strategic delivery and best practice implementation
• Leads the direction of internal and client learning of capability expansion

This role is best suited to someone with circa 6 years’ experience within a media agency function with demonstrable experience of applying strategic thinking to complex integrated campaigns, a proven track record in achieving KPI’s and growing client relationships at top tier levels. We’re a growing and diversifying department, a consistent desire  to maintain Merkle’s position at the forefront of marketing innovation is integral.

Life as a Strategy Director at Merkle

This is a newly created hybrid role that requires a split client/team and operational focus, 50% will be client & team management, 50% reserved specifically for proposition development and network coordination.

Operational

• Plays a key role in new business pitches, specifically where we are presenting integrated and cross media planning capabilities.
• Collaborates closely with all senior stakeholders on responses to brief and the ongoing successful running of the client account
• Assumes leadership of communication and presentation of media planning to c-suite client teams and stakeholders.
• When required, drives the success of new client onboarding, alongside Client Services.
• Builds and maintains strong client relationships by positioning Merkle as strategic partner.
• Provides thought leadership around integrated channel & brand strategies, positioning Merkle as an expert both internally and externally.

Client/Team

• Management of Media Planners, responsible for development and learning progression of any direct reports.
• Co-ordinates planning process and collates resource to present holistic & integrated plans.
• Adopts department best practice and implements end-to end process with regards to  brief responses and new client on-boarding.
•  Liaises with internal research teams to collate market and customer insight to support and justify media laydown.
•  Liaises with internal research team to analyse data trends and client performance to develop solid strategic media plans.
• Works with media team to periodically review media laydown using campaign performance data.
• Works with the relevant teams to define custom measurement frameworks and PCA templates.
• Initiates stakeholder planning ensuring relevant participation and contribution.
• Works directly with Merkle new business team to assist in RFP and media plan recommendations as part of sales/on-boarding process.
• Develops case study material for external and internal circulation, showcasing effective integrated marketing strategies.

A few of the benefits

As we progress and develop as a company, you will too. Within our fast-growing company, there’s plenty of opportunity to develop your skill set and you’ll be encouraged to be curious and share new ideas. In exchange for your contribution to our award-winning company, we make sure you take advantage of a generous holiday allowance and are paid a competitive salary. We’re really proud of our company values and culture; we have regular company / team socials and want all our employees to enjoy coming into work. Some of our benefits include:

• Friendly, approachable office atmosphere - and business-casual dress code
• Free breakfast
• Regular company socials (including bowling, Crystal Maze, quiz nights, annual Christmas and Summer parties to name a few!)
• On-site Games Room with ping pong and pool table
• The company pays for our lunch on the last Friday of every month
• On Friday’s at 4:30pm (Four Thirsty) everyone can help themselves to a celebratory drink
• Cycle2Work scheme, free eye tests, a company mobile phone and season ticket loans (post 3-month probation)

What we are looking for in you

• Circa 6 years’ experience within digital media agency function and/or advertiser
• A comprehensive knowledge ATL and OOH marketing initiatives.
• Experience in working with other agency partners
• Breadth of expertise from overarching strategic approach to pragmatic planning and communication frameworks
• The role requires depth and breadth in understanding the global media industry, with the ability to stay ahead and on top of the new media trends and technology
• Proven experience applying strategic thinking to complex integrated campaigns, with a demonstrable track record in achieving and exceeding KPIs
• Leadership abilities to be able to supervise the planning process across multi-disciplinary laydown liaising with Analysts, Media Leads and Client Service Directors as needed
• Strong understanding of multi-channel marketing, ensure data is fully embedded in all initiatives
• Experience of leading strategy and growing client relationships at top tier levels
• Project management, demonstrable leading experience

At the point of application, the candidate must have the legal right to work in the UK as we are unable to sponsor visas as this time.

Merkle does not discriminate against job applicants on the basis of age, disability, gender reassignment, marital or civil partner status, pregnancy or maternity, race, colour, nationality, ethnic or national origin, religion or belief, sex or sexual orientation. Experience stipulated in this job description serves as a guide only and all applications will be considered on their merits, irrespective of experience. 

As part of our Diversity and Inclusion agenda, and as an Equal Opportunities employer, if you require reasonable adjustments during the selection process please engage directly with your Recruiter.