Manager, Planning

The Manager, Media Planning at Dentsu is entrusted with crucial responsibilities such as developing strategic and tactical media plans for both digital and traditional media, primarily focusing on local markets. This role involves coordinating with multi-channel teams to ensure cohesive integrated media strategies, communicating with clients regarding media plans, managing project timelines and deliverables, analyzing competitive landscapes, and effectively managing a large media budget and flowchart.

To qualify for the Manager, Media Planning role at Dentsu, candidates should possess a minimum of 3 years of experience in media planning and relevant media buying experience across various channels. Familiarity with industry tools and systems such as Media Ocean, DDS, and Nielsen Ad Intel is advantageous. While not mandatory, having experience managing junior team members and exposure to large accounts in CPG or retail is a plus.

At Dentsu, the culture is inclusive and collaborative, making it an ideal environment for the Manager, Media Planning to thrive. You will have the opportunity to lead a dynamic team, fostering creativity and innovation while ensuring that everyone's ideas are valued. Dentsu encourages professional growth through team collaboration, diverse perspectives, and a focus on delivering top-notch media solutions for our clients.

Dentsu is committed to fostering a healthy work-life balance for its employees, including those in the Manager, Media Planning role. The flexible paid time off policy, coupled with at least 15 paid holidays each year, allows you to recharge. Moreover, with remote working options available, you can find a schedule that accommodates both your professional responsibilities and personal life.

The Manager, Media Planning role at Dentsu comes with a competitive benefits package that includes medical, vision, and dental insurance, life insurance, short-term and long-term disability coverage, and a robust 401k plan. You will also have access to flexible paid time off, generous holiday leave, paid parental leave, and more, helping ensure that you have the support you need to thrive both personally and professionally.

In responding to this question, focus on specific projects or campaigns you were part of, outlining your role in both digital and traditional media planning efforts. Highlight tools and strategies you employed, the outcomes you achieved, and any unique challenges you navigated. This shows your comprehensive understanding of the media landscape.

When answering this question, articulate the importance of balancing client objectives with budget constraints. Share examples where you successfully allocated resources to maximize impact while ensuring value for clients, demonstrating your analytical skills and strategic thinking.

Be specific about your proficiency with media planning tools such as Media Ocean, DDS, and Nielsen Ad Intel. Discuss how you have used these to gather insights, analyze performance, and inform your planning process. This communicates familiarity with industry standards and enhances your credibility.

Elaborate on the methodology you employ to assess competitors, including what tools or data sources you use. Explain how this analysis informs your recommendations, ensuring you align clients' plans with market realities and capitalize on identified opportunities.

Share a detailed account of a specific media plan, highlighting your role from conception to execution. Discuss the strategies implemented, the KPIs set, and the measurable outcomes that resulted from the campaign, asserting your ability to drive success.

Emphasize the importance of regular updates, transparency, and responsiveness. Share approaches you take to keep communication channels open, such as scheduling regular check-ins or reporting, which helps build client trust and satisfaction.

Discuss your commitment to continuous learning by engaging with industry publications, attending webinars, and participating in networking events. Show that you are proactive in keeping up with trends, ensuring your strategies remain relevant and effective.

Highlight your leadership style, focusing on collaboration, mentoring, and providing constructive feedback. Share examples of how you have nurtured talent within your team, emphasizing the importance of developing future leaders in the media planning space.

Provide a scenario where a client had specific demands or challenges. Explain your problem-solving approach, how you balanced client expectations with feasibility, and highlight the resolution and the outcome, showcasing your ability to manage stress and moral dilemmas.

Convey your enthusiasm for Dentsu’s values and its commitment to innovation in media planning. Mention specific aspects of the role that align with your skills and career aspirations, illustrating how this position is a strategic fit for your professional growth.