Business Unit Director

2 weeks ago


Johannesburg, South Africa VML Full time

**Who We Are**:
At VML, we are a beacon of innovation and growth in an ever-evolving world. Our heritage is built upon a century of combined expertise, where creativity meets technology, and diverse perspectives ignite inspiration. With the merger of VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson, we have forged a new path as a growth partner that is part creative agency, part consultancy, and part technology powerhouse.

Our global family now encompasses over 30,000 employees across 150+ offices in 64 markets, each contributing to a culture that values connection, belonging, and the power of differences. Our expertise spans the entire customer journey, offering deep insights in communications, commerce, consultancy, CRM, CX, data, production, and technology. We deliver end-to-end solutions that result in revolutionary work.

**Who we're looking for**:
**Are you a client whisperer with a knack for turning marketing dreams into award-winning realities? Do you thrive on leading passionate teams and building brands that matter? If so, keep reading because VML's wants YOU**

**We're on the hunt for a Business Unit Director who's equal parts strategic mastermind and inspirational leader. Someone who understands the power of a killer strategy, but also knows how to rally a team to bring that vision to life with passion and precision.**

**What you'll be doing**:

- **Be the captain of your ship**: You'll steer the strategic course for a portfolio of awesome clients, becoming their trusted advisor and go-to for all things marketing.
- **Build relationships that matter**: We're talking deep, lasting connections built on mutual respect and a shared passion for killer work.
- **Turn challenges into triumphs**: Channel your inner problem-solver to navigate roadblocks with grace and turn them into opportunities for growth.
- **Make a real impact**: Your leadership will directly contribute to the success of your clients and the team. We're talking tangible results and bragging rights
- **Grow with the best**: You'll lead, mentor, and inspire a team of talented rockstars, fostering a culture of collaboration, innovation, and good vibes.
- **Financial Management**:

- Responsible for the overall profitability of assigned client accounts.
- Develop and manage budgets, forecasts, and resource allocation.
- Monitor and control project costs, ensuring adherence to agreed-upon budgets.
- Identify and pursue opportunities for organic growth within existing client accounts.

**What you'll need**:

- Brand management or marketing communications diploma or degree or equivalent.
- 2-3 years of experience as a Business Unit Director, within an agency setting.
- Minimum 12 years in a marketing communications role encompassing strategy, advertising, research, or marketing.
- Proven ability to develop and maintain strong client relationships.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills.
- Strong business acumen and financial management skills.
- Experience managing and developing high-performing teams.
- Ability to think strategically and solve problems creatively.
- Deep understanding of the digital marketing landscape.

At VML, we are committed to fostering an all-inclusive work environment that is both rewarding and career-forward. Our Inclusion, Equity & Belonging initiatives, alongside the VML Foundation, reflect our dedication to giving back and making a positive impact in our communities and beyond. Our people are the heartbeat of our organization—creators, doers, innovators, makers, and thinkers—who drive not just marketing, but meaningful experiences that resonate in every action and interaction.

VML is a WPP Agency. For more information, please visit our website, and follow VML on our social channels via Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.



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