Freelance Media Planning Manager

Client Overview: Our client is a leading media and marketing organization that develops data-driven, cross-channel media strategies to help brands connect with consumers.

Role Overview: The role is responsible for leading the development and execution of strategic media plans across multiple channels while managing client relationships, guiding campaign performance, and mentoring junior team members. This position partners with internal stakeholders to transform business objectives into effective media strategies, oversee campaign implementation, analyze performance, and identify optimization opportunities. The role also serves as a key leader within the team, ensuring high-quality deliverables, fostering collaboration, and supporting the professional growth of direct reports.

Media Planning Manager Responsibilities:

• Lead the development of strategic and tactical media plans aligned with business objectives.
• Conduct research and leverage consumer, audience, and competitive insights to inform media recommendations.
• Develop media briefs, strategic recommendations, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders.
• Stay current on media trends and emerging channels, incorporating innovative opportunities into planning.
• Analyze large datasets, including audience, competitive, and campaign performance data.
• Collaborate cross-functionally with internal teams and external partners throughout the planning and execution process.
• Oversee RFP development, evaluate partner proposals, negotiate media opportunities, and recommend investments.
• Ensure accuracy of media plans, insertion orders, campaign specifications, and delivery timelines.
• Monitor campaign performance and communicate optimization opportunities across digital channels including display, social, mobile, and video.
• Lead reporting efforts and translate campaign insights into future strategic recommendations.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with key stakeholders and serve as a primary point of contact.
• Lead client meetings, project timelines, and campaign status updates while proactively resolving challenges.
• Mentor, coach, and develop junior team members through performance management, training, and career development.
• Foster a collaborative, positive team culture and participate in recruiting and interviewing new talent.

Media Planning Manager Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience.
• 4 years of experience developing strategic media recommendations and managing integrated media campaigns.
• Experience planning across multiple media channels.
• Strong understanding of marketing principles, media strategy, analytics, and campaign measurement.
• Previous experience in a client-facing leadership role.
• Demonstrated experience mentoring or managing junior team members.
• Excellent written, verbal, presentation, and communication skills.
• Strong analytical, organizational, and problem-solving abilities.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including Excel, PowerPoint, and Word, as well as media planning and reporting tools.
• Commitment to collaboration, continuous learning, and fostering an inclusive team environment.