Group Director Business Development

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute VML's overall marketing plan, identifying likely targets for new clients and opportunities for expansion with existing clients.
• Proactively connect with potential new clients and decision-makers to introduce VML services.
• Maintain and grow relationships with advertising search consultants to position VML for significant client opportunities.
• Collaborate with new business teams across VML and WPP on inter-disciplinary pitches and drive additional opportunities for VML through existing WPP integrated businesses.
• Manage significant business development pitches for new and existing clients as 'pitch producer,' assembling account, creative, planning, and production resources.
• Provide direction, support, and assistance to local new business teams for smaller opportunities.
• Spearhead organization throughout the pitch process, from initial kickoff meetings and content development to ongoing touch bases and final presentation creation and logistics.
• Be a key part of the presentation team at significant new client meetings.
• Manage & train business development managers, leading or supporting growth opportunities.
• Collaborate on, and support the development of, creative, yet informative, RFI/RFP presentations that highlight VML's capabilities, resources, and outlook.
• Aid in the development of pitch background materials, including prospective client contact and business background research.
• Conceptualize and develop new business marketing materials and related collateral to support overall marketing efforts.
• Organize creative work; assist in project management of client outreach deliverables and follow-up with respective teams to ensure on-time delivery.
• Drive VML business development efforts with all levels of communication, owning strategic and day-to-day management of various internal and external projects.
• Collaborate and build trust amongst all internal stakeholders, from creative teams through office services and beyond.
• Track, monitor, and report on actual VML business development performance against global plan.
• Support the development of VML's new Business Development infrastructure and a new approach to New Business.

Requirements

• 8+ years' experience in digital or integrated communications agency environment.
• Proven track record for generating new revenue and new business opportunities.
• Dynamic leadership, team building, and team management skills.
• Excellent project management skills.
• Ability to operate successfully in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment, with high energy and vibrance.
• Ability to analyze, develop, sell in, and manage business strategies, plans, and business cases.
• Prior experience leading new business pitches.
• Prior experience developing and executing overall marketing plans in an agency environment.
• Strong presentation and senior client-facing skills.

Nice to Have

• Experience with managing and training business development teams.
• Experience working with integrated services and cross-disciplinary teams.

Qualifications

• Experience in digital or integrated communications agency environment.

Benefits & Perks

• Competitive salary range of $100,000-$230,000 USD.
• Comprehensive benefits package.
• Hybrid work approach with teams in the office an average of four days a week.
• Flexibility and accommodations available upon discussion.