VP, Strategy

2173 - VP, Strategy 

Role Summary and Impact

Openmind, part of WPP, is an integrated agency model drawing on talent from across WPP. It has been created to accelerate the European transformation for Nestlé’s media function. Core to the solution is the advanced best data and technology capabilities, fuelled by WPP’s investment in AI, to maximise the impact of Nestlé media investment.  

The Opportunity:  We’re looking for a genuine game-changer – a seasoned strategist with a proven track record of inspiring teams, shaping industry dialogue, and delivering unparalleled strategic leadership to join the Nestlé team. Nestlé is client that truly values innovation, strategic partnership, and cutting-edge media solutions. This isn't just about managing a team; it's about elevating the craft of strategy to an art form, fostering future leaders, and propelling our global Nestlé business into new frontiers. If you're ready to lead from the front, challenge the status quo, and leave an indelible mark on global CPG marketing, then let's talk.

What You'll Do (Key Responsibilities):

As a strategy leader withing the global strategy and capabilities team, you will spearhead a Nestlé team of strategists and planners, and be instrumental in defining the future of our strategic output and client impact:

• Strategic Leadership & Excellence: Lead, mentor, and inspire the SBU/GMB strategy team, working hand-in-glove with the Nestlé Global Head of Strategy to define, elevate, and consistently deliver 'gold standard' strategic frameworks and solutions across all engagements, challenge convention and bring teams on the journey.
• Talent Development & Nurturing: Champion the growth and professional evolution of our strategists, providing impactful mentorship, hands-on coaching, and robust capability building initiatives. You’ll also expertly manage team workloads and optimize resourcing to foster a high-performing, sustainable environment.
• Client Immersion & Relationship Building: Dive deep into the nuances of Nestlé’s diverse categories and beloved brands. Cultivate and nurture deep, trusted relationships with senior client stakeholders, acting as a strategic confidante and an indispensable partner who understands their specific category and business needs inside and out.
• Proactive Growth & Innovation: Drive a proactive strategic agenda, moving beyond reactive briefs to identify untapped growth opportunities. Seamlessly integrate wider WPP capabilities and collaboratively develop incremental scopes alongside the client leadership team to expand our impact and value.
• Ideas-Led Strategy & Storytelling: Architect ideas-led strategic solutions that elegantly connect profound consumer insights to actionable, impactful media programs. You possess the rare ability to draw a crystal-clear "red thread" from insight to execution, creating compelling narratives that inspire clients and teams alike.
• WPP Integration & Media Advocacy: Act as a central connector within the broader WPP ecosystem, integrating diverse specialist skills to unlock holistic value for our clients. You will relentlessly champion the evolving power, innovation, and undeniable value of modern media within the integrated marketing landscape.
• Award-Winning Impact: Inspire and architect award-winning, breakthrough strategic platforms that challenge conventional thinking and drive stand-out work. You’ll do this always from a foundation of deep client trust, for an enviable portfolio of world-leading brands like Nespresso, KitKat, and many more.

Skills and Experience

• Experience: Substantial progressive experience in communications and media strategy, with a significant tenure in a leading agency environment, within a global or multi-market remit.
• Leadership: Proven experience in leading, managing, and inspiring high-performing strategy teams, fostering a culture of excellence and continuous learning.
• CPG Expertise: Deep, demonstrable knowledge and passion for the CPG/FMCG sector, understanding its complexities, trends, and unique marketing challenges.
• Client Acumen: A track record of building and sustaining robust, trusted relationships with senior-level clients, often acting as a key strategic advisor.
• Strategic Agility: Exceptional ability to translate complex business challenges into clear strategic opportunities and innovative media solutions.
• Collaborative Spirit: A genuine "true team player" ethos, with the ability to navigate complex organizational structures and build strong alliances across diverse internal and external stakeholders.
• Communication: Outstanding written, verbal, and presentation skills, with an innate ability to simplify the complex and tell compelling, data-backed stories.
• Brand & Media Love: An undeniable passion for brands, their stories, and the dynamic role modern media plays in their success.

Life at WPP Media & Benefits

Our passion for shaping the next era of media is powered by our commitment to Be Extraordinary, investing in our employees to inspire transformational creativity. We also Lead Optimistically, firmly believing in and Championing Growth and Development for every individual. This commitment allows WPP Media employees to leverage the extensive global WPP Media & WPP networks to pursue their passions, build vital professional connections, and learn at the cutting edge of marketing and advertising. 

We Create an Open environment built on trust and respect, where everyone feels they belong and has opportunities to progress. This inclusive culture is fostered through a variety of employee resource groups and frequent in-office events showcasing team wins, sharing thought leadership, and celebrating holidays and milestone events. Our comprehensive benefits package reflects this commitment, including competitive medical, group retirement plans, vision, and dental insurance, significant paid time off, preferential partner discounts, and employee mental health awareness days. 

WPP Media is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to characteristics. We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection in this open and supportive environment. 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. 

Please read our Privacy Notice (https://www.wppmedia.com/pages/privacy-policy) for more information on how we process the information you provide. 

While we appreciate all applications received, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. 

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