Manager, Media Planning

Company description Spark Foundry is the agency that is shaped by ideas. We believe everyone’s ideas are powerful – big or small. Our knack for exploring them makes us better. We strongly believe in collaboration, where a thriving working relationship leads to everyone’s best work. Luckily, this conviction attracts likeminded clients and talent to create a positive and magnetic team. We’re constantly adapting to each of our clients’ businesses’ needs to avoid stagnation. This ensures that our clients get the best service to tackle their future‑facing challenges and that our team stays on their toes. Above all, we love to go above and beyond what’s expected of us. We’ve done this through media innovation that is recognized by both the industry and by our clients who reap the benefits. The near future is very bright for Spark Foundry, whether that’s a result of Publicis Groupe’s investment in groundbreaking global & local tools and data solutions or because of the contagious momentum amplified by new team members and new clients. Overview As a Planning Manager at Spark, you will oversee a team of media professionals in developing ideas and activations that drive human connections. You will lead the team in pursuing innovative, well‑targeted communication and connection solutions across a variety of media to meet or exceed client objectives & drive business. Spark has experienced an incredible growth rate over the past years. The network has transformed and moved at the pace of culture. As the Human Experience company, we are pleased to offer the opportunity to work from anywhere. Responsibilities Ensures strong client relationships with quality of deliverables and client satisfaction Maintains an in-depth knowledge of client business both current and historical Actively listens to clients and anticipates client needs to build business and make Spark indispensable Communicates client objectives to internal stakeholders/staff members and clearly outlines a plan to meet them Works with Director to develop and effectively sell through Spark and Publicis Media business solutions Continually looks for opportunities to improve the group/process/product Co‑ordinate with partner agencies and global counterparts to maintain efficient work streams Ensures current staff is fully utilized and operating effectively/efficiently to meet client needs Takes a leadership role in the training and development of new staff members Maintain overall control of workflow and assigned team responsibilities and provides assistance where necessary to ensure timely completion of projects Works closely with the Group Director to continually assess group members' professional development Proactively communicates performance goals, as well as accomplishments and improvement needs to staff on a regular basis Effectively and professionally handles performance issues as they occur Assist Director in maintaining revenue forecasting Behaviors and deliverables consistently demonstrate thought leadership and innovation Leads by example via work ethic, team building approach, attitude and overall collaboration Qualifications Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university preferred 6+ years of progressive levels of responsibility in media planning, buying and management Demonstrated business acumen and a track record of success in the media services profession Excellent written and verbal communication and presentation skills Strong negotiating skills Solid interpersonal and teamwork abilities Able to build and strengthen client relationships Demonstrated leadership and supervision skills Demonstrated critical thinking and problem‑solving abilities Strong analytical abilities Strong command of media research and reporting resources Additional information Spark is an equal opportunity employer with a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. We create and nurture a vibrant work environment that celebrates, values and leverages all aspects of diversity and inclusiveness, attracts world‑class talent and serves as the industry benchmark for best practices. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals and will provide appropriate accommodation for candidates with disabilities or accessibility needs throughout the recruitment process, upon request. Please contact our recruiter for any questions, accommodations or specific requests. We thank all candidates for their interest in Spark; however, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contactedp> We’re committed to building a diverse and inclusive workplace. Accommodations are available throughout the hiring process upon request. Salary Transparency matters to us. The salary range for this position is $70K–$80K per year. Actual compensation within this range will be based on a variety of factors, including relevant experience, knowledge, skills, and applicable certifications. This range reflects what we reasonably expect to offer based on current market data. AI Use We use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to support parts of our hiring process, such as reviewing applications or analyzing resumes. These tools assist our recruitment team but never replace human decision‑making. We believe in a human‑first approach, where your experience and potential are recognized by people. #J-18808-Ljbffr