Freelance Program Director

VML, part of WPP, is a leading creative company that combines brand experience, customer experience, and commerce, creating connected brands to drive growth. The agency is recognized for its innovative, human-first, award-winning work for blue-chip clients including AstraZeneca, Colgate-Palmolive, Dell, Ford, Microsoft, Nestlé, The Coca-Cola Company, and Wendy’s. VML is a Leader in Forrester Wave™ Reports across multiple categories, including Marketing Creative and Content Service Providers, Commerce Services, and Global Digital Experience Services.

About the role

VML is seeking a Freelance Program Director to oversee the overall delivery stack, processes, software, and hardware for a dedicated client in the Automotive space. This role acts as the primary point of contact with client leadership and serves as the connective tissue between internal resources and external stakeholders. You will function as part Project Leader, Management Consultant, and Delivery Manager for both client stakeholders and internal production teams.

Responsibilities

• Work with internal Process and Project Management teams to drive innovative initiatives, analyze, plan, and implement technological solutions as part of the roadmap, and lead cross-brand projects as the primary client contact.
• Consult and support internal production and account teams by identifying opportunities for streamlining, automating, or implementing efficient processes within VML and for clients.
• Own and grow relationships with client counterparts, including internal creative and social media groups, Business Technology Leaders, and License Owners.
• Play an active role within VML, contributing to the development of new proposals, products, and services.

Qualifications

• Ideally 5+ years of project and delivery management experience in advertising or marketing communications, with a minimum of 3+ years managing technical, digital projects, and 360 campaigns (digital, CLM, CRM, etc.).
• PMP certification is a plus; experience with Agile implementation is preferred.
• Experience working in (preferably large) agencies on large global accounts.
• Self-driven with proven experience collaborating with multi-disciplinary teams (CX, UX, Tech, Creative, PM/AM) across remote offices.
• Good understanding of emerging web standards, user-centered design, optimization, and search practices.
• Experience with SalesForce Marketing Cloud is a plus.
• High emotional intelligence (EQ) and ability to motivate teams.
• Proficiency in MS Office products.
• Availability to travel within the U.S. and to other VML offices.

Skills

• Entrepreneurial attitude with strong business acumen; ability to marshal people and build consensus to drive ideas and launch solutions.
• Open and collaborative, thriving in close-knit, supportive team environments.
• Optimistic and resilient, with a “Yes and why not?” mindset; ability to problem-solve under pressure.
• Ego-less team player, willing to take on necessary roles for team success.

Pay

$85—$110 USD

Schedule

Hybrid approach with teams in the office an average of four days a week.