
WPP · Tokyo
WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands. We unite cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, world-class creativity, next-ge...
WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands.
We unite cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, world-class creativity, next-generation production, transformative
enterprise solutions and expert strategic counsel in a single company – powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing
platform, WPP Open, to help our clients navigate change, capture opportunity and deliver transformational growth.
We work with the world's most valuable brands and have global reach across 100+ markets, with deep local expertise.
Our people are the key to our success. We're committed to fostering a culture of creativity, belonging and continuous learning,
attracting and developing the brightest talent, and providing exciting career opportunities that help our people grow.
For more information, visit WPP.com.
About the Role
You will be the client lead and trusted advisor for an international client brand - accountable for client relationship,
team leadership and delivery of top class media strategy & planning.
You are a people leader, media expert and growth driver. In an AI driven era where consumers are changing the way they discover
and interact with brands, you will navigate our media delivery from traditional paid media planning to an orchestrated practice of
paid, owned and earned. You will understand and drive the balance between brand voice and trust creator voice in this market.
You have knowledge and experience of the media landscape in Japan, and can confidently navigate vendor and partner relationships,
including negotiating the best deals for our clients.
What You'll Own
Account Team Leadership
stakeholders
media strategy
and commercial accountability
on scopes and fees
working
Campaign Activation Leadership
executing against a plan, but interrogating it
data, identity solutions) across your client portfolio
New Business & Client Growth
presentation on priority pursuits
thought leadership that create commercial moments
What Success Looks Like
90 days: Deep client immersion; relationship mapping complete; activation audit underway; first pitch contribution delivered.
6 months: Clear account growth plans in place; at least one organic upsell progressed; activation and reporting cadence running at
full health.
12 months: Measurable revenue growth across portfolio; track record on new business; a team that performs and a client base that
advocates for the agency.
Who You Are
and business development
margin without compromising the relationship
conversation, a paid social planning session, or a search efficiency review
We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we’ve
adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office around four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please
discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.
WPP is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to particular
characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same
opportunities to progress in their careers.
PLEASE READ OUR PRIVACY NOTICE (HTTPS://WWW.WPP.COM/EN/CAREERS/WPP-PRIVACY-POLICY-FOR-RECRUITMENT) FOR MORE INFORMATION ON HOW WE
WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands. We unite cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, world-class creativity, next-generation production, transformative enterprise solutions and expert strategic counsel in a single company – powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing platform, WPP Open, to help our clients navigate change, capture opportunity and deliver transformational growth. We work with the world's most valuable brands and have global reach across 100+ markets, with deep local expertise. Our people are the key to our success. We're committed to fostering a culture of creativity, belonging and continuous learning, attracting and developing the brightest talent, and providing exciting career opportunities that help our people grow. For more information, visit WPP.com. Description This role forms a key part of the Mindshare Japan Leadership Team. The Client Leader will be responsible for working collaboratively with local, regional and global colleagues to deliver best in class service and delivery to the several clients. Leading the client relationship and maintenance of the quality of contracted services, lobbying additional assignments as well as developing an appetite for and building revenues from out-of-scope offerings and value add services for the assigned client are also core to this role. Additionally, it is expected to work on the new business pitch with the collaboration work with the regional and global teams in Mindshare networks as well as WPP agencies. Finally ensuring commitments made to clients are specific and deliverable, ideally exceeded! 3 best things about the job: 1. Opportunity to manage the several teams. 2. Key strategic role in Mindshare’s business and Japan's leadership 3. Exposure with regional and global teams across Mindshare network and WPP agencies Measures of success: In three months, * Gained the respect of your team, leadership team and global/ regional stakeholders * Created relationships with key clients * Set your own agenda and roadmap for media In six months, * Met revenue and client satisfaction targets * Ensured that each member of the team can successfully followed up on their professional growth plan In twelve months, * Optimized the team structure as required * Be described as our clients’ lead business partner across key accounts Objectives * Lead a brand with services scope focused on communications planning and online media campaign implementation management, by leveraging performance data analytics and your digital expertise. * Define the strategic approach on the account to meet the client’s business objectives and strategies and oversees the implementation of the annual planning as well as the implementation approach in conjunction with the client team * Support management for the profitable and efficient running of each account through the allocation of resources, process and systems across the portfolio. Client Management * Anticipate the client’s needs and set up internal process to meet / exceed them * Own the end-to-end client interaction and engagement to ensure the long term success of the relationship Operational Excellence * Lead conversations with global and regional teams and cascade clear understanding of strategic principles, guidelines and deliverables to the team * Manage team to ensure deliverables are met * Improve interfaces between planning, buying and digital teams within Mindshare and wider GroupM * Build capabilities in diversified offerings such as content, digital, analytics, etc. People Leadership * Identify, retain and develop talents at all levels in order to effectively deliver to the customer with operational excellence. * Manage and develop the team individually and collectively * Maintain high level of motivation throughout team members Qualifications and Requirements * 7+ years of senior management experience * Bachelor’s degree in a business, numerical or analytical degree * Excellent communication and negotiation skills, ability and flexibility to manage both local and global stakeholders * Ability to influence and manage senior client stakeholders (media managers, marketing directors and country heads) * Demonstrable people management experience gained within a matrix management structure and specific capability at developing and sharing knowledge and developing team(s) and resource capabilities * Bilingual preferred with fluency in English. More about Mindshare We were born in Asia in 1997, a start up with a desire to change the media world. Now we are a global agency with more than 7,000 employees in 116 offices across 86 countries, operating as one team - #teammindshare. We believe that in today’s world, everything begins and ends in media. We aim to be our clients’ lead business partner, to grow their business, and drive profitability through adaptive and inventive marketing. We do this through speed, teamwork and provocation and by operating as a network of networks rather than a rigid hierarchy. We create new things and have fun doing it. Whenever and wherever you join us, you open a door to opportunities in any and of all aspects of media, technology and innovation. We will support you, recognize you and reward you, making Mindshare the place where you do the best work of your career. Mindshare APAC has won 500 awards in the last year alone, including “Agency Network of the Year 2017” by both the MMA SMARTIES™ and Campaign Asia for the fifth and third consecutive year, respectively. Mindshare is part of GroupM, the media investment management arm of WPP, the world’s leading communications services group. To learn more about Mindshare and our philosophy of Original Thinking, visit us at mindshareworld.com and follow us on Twitter @mindshareand facebook.com/mindshareapac and linkedin.com/company/mindshare. About GroupM Japan GroupM Japan is a part of the GroupM that leads and shapes media markets by delivering performance enhancing media products and services, powered by data and technology. Our global network agencies and businesses enable our people to work collaboratively across borders with the best in class, providing them the opportunity to accelerate their progress and development. We are not limited by teams or geographies; our scale and diverse range of clients lets us be more adventurous with our business and talent. We give our talent the space, support and tools to innovate and grow. We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we’ve adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office around four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process. WPP is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to particular characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers. PLEASE READ OUR PRIVACY NOTICE (HTTPS://WWW.WPP.COM/EN/CAREERS/WPP-PRIVACY-POLICY-FOR-RECRUITMENT) FOR MORE INFORMATION ON HOW WE PROCESS THE INFORMATION YOU PROVIDE.
WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands. We unite cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, world-class creativity, next-generation production, transformative enterprise solutions and expert strategic counsel in a single company – powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing platform, WPP Open, to help our clients navigate change, capture opportunity and deliver transformational growth. We work with the world's most valuable brands and have global reach across 100+ markets, with deep local expertise. Our people are the key to our success. We're committed to fostering a culture of creativity, belonging and continuous learning, attracting and developing the brightest talent, and providing exciting career opportunities that help our people grow. For more information, visit WPP.com. ROLE OBJECTIVE The Planning Director is responsible for delivering high-quality, consistent media plan recommendations grounded in a deep understanding of the client’s category, brand challenges, and business objectives. This role translates business objectives into clear communications strategies, defines measurable KPIs, and drives innovation informed by robust audience and consumer insight. As a senior leadership role, the Planning Director plays a critical part in managing senior client relationships, leading integrated planning efforts, and developing high-performing teams. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES MEDIA PLANNING & STRATEGY LEADERSHIP * Lead the development, presentation, and execution of full-funnel media strategies across channels including TV, OOH, and digital * Translate business and marketing objectives into clear communications objectives and measurement frameworks * Provide strategic insight and analysis to support data-driven recommendations and long-term planning decisions * Maintain strong relationships with key media partners and lead negotiations to maximize value and outcomes for clients * Coordinate closely with partner agencies to ensure integrated, best-in-class delivery CLIENT LEADERSHIP & ACCOUNT MANAGEMENT * Build and maintain trusted senior relationships with clients, acting as a strategic planning advisor * Lead relevant components of client meetings, campaign approach presentations, workshops, and strategic reviews * Collaborate with global and regional EssenceMediacom teams to ensure work meets global quality standards * Keep clients informed of industry trends, emerging best practices, and innovations relevant to their business OPERATING & TECHNICAL EXCELLENCE * Apply a data-driven approach, leveraging platforms and tools to analyze competitive spend, consumer behavior, category trends, and campaign performance * Interpret and synthesize consumer insight and competitive research into actionable planning recommendations * Demonstrate strong understanding of the Japanese media landscape alongside integrated planning principles * Champion the adoption of WPP planning and AI tools, empowering teams to embed them into day-to-day workflows PEOPLE LEADERSHIP * Partner with the Client VP to develop team capability, skills, and subject-matter expertise * Mentor and guide team members, encouraging innovative thinking and continuous improvement * Provide clear direction, feedback, and support to drive performance and professional growth COMMERCIAL & BUSINESS LEADERSHIP * Demonstrate strong commercial acumen, with a clear understanding of account profitability and resource management * Monitor performance issues proactively, escalating and addressing risks in a timely manner * Act as an advocate for continuous improvement and operational excellence KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS * Product: Excellence in planning output and operational execution (KPIs to be defined) * Client: Client satisfaction, retention, and growth; strong performance in agency evaluations for strategy and activation planning * Commercial: Achievement of client profitability targets * People & Culture: Positive Culture Amp feedback from managers, peers, and clients EDUCATION, SKILLS & EXPERIENCE * 10+ years’ experience in media planning, including at least 3 years in a senior leadership role overseeing teams * Strong experience managing and developing planning talent * Business Japanese & English communication skills, with proven experience working across global (US), regional (Singapore), and international client teams * Solid understanding of the Japanese media landscape; ability to provide local cultural perspective is a plus * Demonstrated ability to influence and manage senior client stakeholders (media leads, marketing directors) * Strong analytical and strategic planning skills, particularly across the consumer journey * Results-driven mindset with the ability to deliver against targets * Proven collaboration skills across teams, departments, and client organizations * Strong ability to delegate effectively and to sell strategies, ideas, and initiatives with confidence We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we’ve adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office around four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process. WPP is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to particular characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers. PLEASE READ OUR PRIVACY NOTICE (HTTPS://WWW.WPP.COM/EN/CAREERS/WPP-PRIVACY-POLICY-FOR-RECRUITMENT) FOR MORE INFORMATION ON HOW WE PROCESS THE INFORMATION YOU PROVIDE.
WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands. We unite cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, world-class creativity, next-generation production, transformative enterprise solutions and expert strategic counsel in a single company – powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing platform, WPP Open, to help our clients navigate change, capture opportunity and deliver transformational growth. We work with the world's most valuable brands and have global reach across 100+ markets, with deep local expertise. Our people are the key to our success. We're committed to fostering a culture of creativity, belonging and continuous learning, attracting and developing the brightest talent, and providing exciting career opportunities that help our people grow. For more information, visit WPP.com. MEDIA PLANNING MANAGER ROLE OVERVIEW As a Media Planning Manager, you will manage integrated media and communications planning for a key global client, covering both digital and offline channels. This role requires balancing strategic thinking with operational execution—translating business objectives into full-funnel media strategies and actionable plans. While the account has a strong digital focus, offline channels such as TV, OOH, and print remain critical, requiring a planner who can develop cohesive cross-channel recommendations. You will work closely with senior client stakeholders, internal /external activation teams, creative partners, and external media vendors to ensure campaigns are strategically aligned, effectively executed, and continuously optimized. This role also includes project leadership responsibilities and mentoring junior team members. KEY RESPONSIBILITIES INTEGRATED MEDIA STRATEGY & PLANNING * Work with directors and develop comprehensive, insight-driven media strategies aligned with client marketing and business goals. * Define channel roles, budget allocation, audience targeting, and campaign phasing across digital and offline media. * Ensure integration between brand-building and performance-driven channels * Apply audience research, competitive analysis, and historical performance data to strengthen planning recommendations. CAMPAIGN PLANNING, EXECUTION & OPTIMIZATION * Translate strategy into detailed media plans, flowcharts, timelines, and budget trackers. * Partner with digital activation teams, TV buyers, and media vendors to ensure accurate implementation. * Monitor campaign pacing, delivery, and performance against KPIs. * Identify optimization opportunities and recommend adjustments based on real-time performance and insights. CLIENT MANAGEMENT & COMMUNICATION * Serve as a primary day-to-day contact for client stakeholders, ensuring clear and proactive communication. * Present media strategies, plans, and performance reports confidently in both Japanese and English. * Understand the client’s category, business priorities, and competitive landscape to provide relevant recommendations. * Support senior leadership in strategic discussions and annual planning. DATA ANALYSIS & REPORTING * Analyze campaign performance across channels and translate findings into actionable insights. * Prepare campaign reports and post-campaign analyses. * Use data to inform future planning, budget allocation, and performance forecasting. * Ensure planning recommendations are grounded in measurable outcomes. PROJECT & TEAM MANAGEMENT * Lead planning projects from briefing through execution and reporting. * Manage timelines, deliverables, and cross-functional coordination. * Oversee workload allocation and support development of junior team members. * Ensure accuracy and quality of planning outputs. CROSS-FUNCTIONAL & EXTERNAL COLLABORATION * Work closely with internal teams (Digital Activation, Analytics, Strategy, Creative, Investment). * Coordinate with external partners, including media owners, creative agencies, and production teams. * Contribute to internal knowledge sharing on media trends, tools, and best practices. WHAT SUCCESS LOOKS LIKE First 3 months * Gain a strong understanding of the client’s business, target audiences, and media ecosystem. * Support plan development and begin contributing strategic recommendations. * Establish working relationships with internal teams and client stakeholders. Within 6 months * Independently lead planning for selected campaigns or projects. * Present plans and performance updates directly to clients. * Provide informed recommendations based on media trends and performance insights. Within 12 months * Lead annual planning and campaign reviews. * Deliver data-driven strategic recommendations for future campaigns. * Act as a trusted planning lead for the client and internal teams. REQUIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE * 5+ years of experience in media planning or communications planning within an agency environment. * Strong knowledge of both digital media (programmatic, paid social, search, video, display) and offline media (TV, OOH, print, radio). * Experience managing integrated campaigns and coordinating multiple stakeholders. * Strong analytical skills and proficiency in Excel (pivot tables, lookups, budget tracking). * Excellent presentation and communication skills in Japanese and English. * Ability to manage multiple projects and deadlines simultaneously. * Experience mentoring junior staff or leading projects preferred. TYPICAL SCOPE OF AUTHORITY * Own planning workstreams for key campaigns. * Recommend channel strategy and budget allocation. * Present directly to mid- to senior-level client stakeholders. * Provide guidance to planners and executives. #LI-DNP We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we’ve adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office around four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process. WPP is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to particular characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers. PLEASE READ OUR PRIVACY NOTICE (HTTPS://WWW.WPP.COM/EN/CAREERS/WPP-PRIVACY-POLICY-FOR-RECRUITMENT) FOR MORE INFORMATION ON HOW WE PROCESS THE INFORMATION YOU PROVIDE.