Job Description
STRATEGY DIRECTOR
FOR THE PHARM (PART OF VML, WPP)
We are The Pharm: an integrated, multi-specialty service and consulting model within WPP where we work with our client Walgreens Boots Alliance in partnership towards one shared mission: to help people across the world lead healthier and happier lives.
The 150+ experts assembled at The Pharm (across Essence Mediacom, Ogilvy PR and VML) have a unique opportunity to dedicate ourselves to one client in pursuit of their ambitious mission, while collaborating with experts from across several agencies (and areas of expertise) within WPP. This role sits within the Boots Pharm team who deliver campaign work and is powered by the creative expertise of VML.
The Role:
We are looking for an experienced Strategy Director, with strong brand-building and advertising communication skills. You will be working on the fabric-of-the-nation brand that is Boots, delivering against the fast-paced marketing calendar while continuously lifting the creative excellence of the whole brand as we build and grow their new brand platform of ‘With you for Life’. The role is ideal for someone with strong experience at the Strategy Director level who is hungry to be a part of a new strategic direction for Boots over the next few years.
To be seen as a strategic partner by your clients
This role requires you to build a close, constructive, proactive, and open dialogue with your senior clients. You must win their trust but not be afraid to challenge their thinking when required, demonstrating how your creative strategy solves their commercial challenges.
To drive ground-breaking consumer insight for the brand.
We need to really get under the skin of our consumers, understanding the attitudes, needs, worries, and desires that underpin their relationship with this category. To do this, you will need to understand and absorb existing research data (both quantitative and qualitative) and be able to uncover fresh insights. You will push to find new ways to get closer to consumers, whether that’s through suggesting new research opportunities or surfacing new consumer trends.
To create compelling narratives and presentations
You will need to create logical and compelling presentations (e.g., building on consumer insights to define new positioning territories; using historical audits and competitor learnings to help evolve our tone of voice and positioning; creating persuasive narratives to frame the presentation of creative ideas etc.).
To work collaboratively with other specialist strategists to drive innovative media and channel thinking. This role requires expertise and experience across the entire brand ecosystem. You will happily collaborate with the connection, CX, content, data and social strategists on the team.
To drive a culture of effectiveness
You will look for opportunities to write effectiveness papers and drive a culture of effective measurement across the team.
What's in it for you?
Aside from a generous annual leave allowance and pension allowances, you will have access to a whole host of other benefits and activities such as:
* Life Assurance
* Permanent Health Insurance
* BUPA
* Flexible hybrid-working schedule
* Enhanced family friendly policies
* Well-being Programme
* Employee Assistance Support
* Cycle to Work Scheme
* Eye Care and Glasses Vouchers
* Season Ticket Loans
* WPP Discounts
You will also have a clear long-term career development plan and access to our learning and development activities and online learning platforms.
Our Commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
VML is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, colour, religion or belief, sex, age, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, military/veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability. We believe in creating a dynamic work environment that values diversity and inclusion and strives to recruit a diverse slate of candidates to help us achieve that goal.
If you are unable or limited in your ability to access our career site as a result of a disability, we will be happy to assist you. Please contact our People Team at to request an alternate accommodation. Please note that only requests for an employment application accommodation will be returned.