Spark Foundry make up part of a thriving global media network and are part of the Publicis Groupe, one of the world’s leading communications groups. We are globally connected with over 8,000 employees in 110 offices across 70 countries.

Who We Are in the UK? 

Spark Foundry, the Acceleration Agency.

We help brands to identify, learn and respond to opportunities faster than the competition.

Every client has an area of their business they need to accelerate, from short-term goals to long-term transformation.

We’ve proven our approach during the most difficult year on record. Now we’re using it to provide a launchpad for their future.

Come be an accelerator with us.

How we accelerate

• Planning: an approach that works in practice rather than theory, arming planners with the ability to create cutting edge campaigns
• Intelligence: a suite of tools that give definitive answers to big questions, and uncovers actionable insights about real people
• Trading: a model built on flexibility and trusted relationships, underpinned with bold guarantees
• Relationships: a culture of asking challenging questions to better understand the brief – we are not a ‘yes’ agency
• People: a strong history of recruiting talent from diverse backgrounds and accelerating their careers

Our Commitment

We are diverse though our experience, people and the clients we look after - and we celebrate that diversity. Our people hold us accountable to our beliefs and via regular surveys and our grass roots D&I team, The Collective, and internal next generation board, Firestarters, we hold regular events and work continually towards generating ideas, initiatives and educating our people to ensure we are a diverse and inclusive agency.

As part of our dedication to create an inclusive and diverse workforce, Spark Foundry is committed to equal access to opportunity for people without regard to race, age, sex, disability, neurodiversity, sexual orientation, gender identity or religion. 

About the Role: Spark Foundry is seeking an ambitious and visionary Planning Account Director to join our dynamic team. This role offers the opportunity to work across three diverse clients, including one of Publicis’ flagship global accounts, GSK, as well as TrustFord and New Look. This position is ideal for someone looking to make a significant impact within the agency and drive forward innovative media solutions.

Key Clients:

• GSK: As a world leader in the pharmaceutical industry, GSK focuses on promoting awareness of diseases and the use of innovative and specialty medicines to prevent and treat them. This role centers on their vaccines division, offering the chance to work within the UK team and engage in high-profile, cutting-edge media campaigns with increasing budgets and opportunities for innovation.

• TrustFord: The largest Ford-dedicated dealer group for new and used cars, vans, servicing, and repairs. TrustFord values media expertise and fresh ideas, expecting their agency to challenge them and bring exciting new opportunities. This client has transitioned from predominantly offline to predominantly online media investments since 2014, constantly evolving their approach.

• New Look: A leading UK fashion retailer undergoing significant transformation. With 120 high street stores, New Look is investing heavily in media to drive footfall and boost sales. This client provides a platform for creative and impactful media strategies.

Responsibilities:

• Campaign Leadership: Take a lead role in campaign responses, implementation, and management of reporting.
• Innovation: Develop innovative solutions that challenge clients to think differently and position their brands as category leaders.
• Quality Control: Ensure high standards in all plans and proposals before sharing them with clients.
• Client Relationship Management: Maintain and foster strong relationships with clients, being their trusted eyes and ears.
• Inter-Agency Integration: Collaborate with investment teams and the broader Publicis network to deliver world-class work.
• Team Stewardship: Lead and motivate the planning team, reporting to the Business Director and supported by a Manager and Executive.
• Professional Development: Provide education and motivation to help direct reports achieve their full potential and grow professionally.
• Proactive Approach: Stay aware of industry trends and developments to proactively benefit clients.

What We Are Looking For:

• A visionary individual with the ambition and skills to drive brands forward.
• Great communication and interpersonal skills.
• Strong people management abilities and a positive attitude.
• Expertise in both traditional and digital media.
• A proactive approach to staying informed about industry trends and innovations.

Spark Foundry has fantastic benefits on offer to all of our employees. In addition to the classics, Pension, Life Assurance, Private Medical and Income Protection Plans we also offer;

• WORK YOUR WORLD opportunity to work anywhere in the world, where there is a Publicis office, for up to 6 weeks a year.
• REFLECTION DAYS - Two additional days of paid leave to step away from your usual day-to-day work and create time to focus on your well-being and self-care.
• HELP@HAND BENEFITS 24/7 helpline to support you on a personal and professional level. Access to remote GPs, mental health support and CBT. Wellbeing content and lifestyle coaching.
• FAMILY FRIENDLY POLICIES We provide 26 weeks of full pay for the following family milestones: Maternity. Adoption, Surrogacy and Shared Parental Leave.
• FLEXIBLE WORKING, BANK HOLIDAY SWAP & BIRTHDAY DAY OFF You are entitled to an additional day off for your birthday, from your first day of employment.
• GREAT LOCAL DISCOUNTS This includes membership discounts with Soho Friends, local restaurants and retailers in Westfield White City and Television Centre.

Full details of our benefits will be shared when you join us!

Publicis Groupe operates a hybrid working pattern with full time employees being office-based three days during the working week. 

We are supportive of all candidates and are committed to providing a fair assessment process. If you have any circumstances (such as neurodiversity, physical or mental impairments or a medical condition) that may affect your assessment, please inform your Talent Acquisition Partner. We will discuss possible adjustments to ensure fairness. Rest assured, disclosing this information will not impact your treatment in our process.

Please make sure you check out the Publicis Career Page which showcases our Inclusive Benefits and our EAG’s (Employee Action Groups).

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