Director, Commercial Finance

About WPP Media

WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands. With exceptional talent, trusted data and intelligence, and world-class partnerships – all united by our pioneering agentic marketing platform, WPP Open – we help clients navigate change, capture opportunity, and deliver transformational growth. 

WPP Media is WPP's AI-driven media operating unit, bringing together media, data, and partnerships to deliver creative personalisation at scale. Connected through WPP Open and powered by Open Intelligence, clients see exactly where, how, and why their media investment is working.

For more information, visit wppmedia.com.

The Commercial Director will partner with client leadership and lead the commercial strategy and execution of a portfolio of WPP Media's most significant international clients, directly impacting revenue growth, profitability, and the development of long-term client relationships. This role is crucial for shaping the agency's commercial success and ensuring its long-term financial health in a dynamic and competitive market.

Responsibilities:

Business Growth & Profitability:

• Develop and execute commercial strategies aligned with WPP Media's business objectives.
• Proactively monitor the financial performance of the client portfolio identifying opportunities to improve profitability.
• Collaborate with senior leadership in the development of innovative pricing strategies and remuneration models that optimise outcomes for both WPP Media and its clients.
• Partner with client leaders to identify and pursue revenue growth opportunities presenting compelling proposals.

Commercial Management & Reporting:

• Oversee the financial performance of your client portfolio, proactively identifying and addressing potential risks and opportunities to ensure optimal profitability and efficient resource allocation.
• Drive continuous improvement of reporting and data capture processes, streamlining workflows.

Stakeholder & Client Engagement:

• Establish and nurture strong relationships with senior client stakeholders, including C-suite executives, positioning yourself as a trusted advisor and strategic partner.
• Engage with Agency senior leaders, such as the CEO and CFO, to ensure cohesive commercial strategy and execution.

Contract Negotiation and Compliance:

• Lead complex commercial negotiations with clients and resolve high-level disputes with exceptional negotiation skills and comprehensive knowledge of legal and commercial principles.
• Review and approve scopes of work, ensuring they are commercially sound and aligned with client expectations.

Team Leadership & Mentorship:

• Lead and develop a high-performing team of commercial professionals, promoting a culture of excellence and collaboration.
• Provide regular coaching for the team including conducting performance reviews and facilitating professional development opportunities, resulting in increased employee engagement and retention.

Qualifications:

• A bachelor's degree in business, finance, or a related field and / or a professional accounting qualification and / or equivalent experience.
• 8 years of progressive commercial leadership experience with a demonstrable track record of success.
• Proven ability to develop and implement successful commercial strategies that drive revenue growth and profitability.
• Extensive experience leading the commercial management and contract negotiations for large, international clients within a media agency environment highly desirable.

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