Director, Integrated Investments

As a Director of Integrated Investments at GALE, your primary responsibilities will include managing the strategic investment and activation across linear, streaming, and out-of-home media for multiple advertisers. You'll lead a team to optimize media plans, analyze historical media performance, and ensure that client deliverables meet the highest standards. This role also involves overseeing budgets, vendor negotiations, and evaluating opportunities for media investment growth.

To be a successful candidate for the Director, Integrated Investments role at GALE, you should have significant experience in media investment, specifically linear and digital video. Strong negotiation skills and a deep understanding of the media landscape, including programmatic media and DSPs, are essential. You must also be skilled in data analysis, media math, and possess excellent presentation abilities to communicate strategies effectively.

Key skills for the Director of Integrated Investments at GALE include strategic problem-solving, negotiation expertise across various media types, strong analytical capabilities, attention to detail, and the ability to thrive under pressure. Familiarity with tools like Media Ocean and analytics dashboards for budget and performance reporting is also important.

GALE embraces a flexible hybrid working environment, where employees are expected to work in the office three days per week. This setup encourages collaboration while allowing for work-life balance. GALE's offices are located globally, fostering a diverse and inclusive culture that values innovative ideas and diverse perspectives.

At GALE, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of our culture. We believe that bringing together individuals from various backgrounds and experiences enhances creativity and collaboration. Our commitment to inclusivity is reflected in our Core Values, hiring practices, and various initiatives aimed at creating a supportive and welcoming environment for all employees.

When developing an integrated investment strategy, it's crucial to start with a comprehensive understanding of the client's goals and historical media performance. Analyzing data meticulously to identify trends and performance metrics will inform your strategy. Collaborate closely with cross-functional teams to ensure alignment and use a mix of linear, digital, and emerging media technologies to achieve the best results.

In my experience with media negotiations, I focus on building strong relationships with vendors and leveraging data to support our positions. I ensure that I have a deep understanding of market rates and competitor benchmarks to advocate effectively during negotiations. Being transparent about clients’ needs often helps in finding mutually beneficial agreements.

I frequently utilize tools such as Media Ocean and DCM for monitoring campaign performance. These platforms provide insights into real-time metrics and help track KPIs. Additionally, I rely on reporting dashboards and advanced analytics solutions to measure campaign effectiveness and optimize strategies based on performance data.

To ensure client deliverables meet expectations, I prioritize clear communication on goals and responsibilities with my team. I also implement a thorough review process to assess the quality of our work and ensure alignment with the client’s objectives. Regular check-ins with clients to gather feedback and adjust strategies also play a critical role in this process.

I have extensive experience negotiating both upfront and scatter media deals. My strategy involves analyzing market dynamics and conducting thorough research to understand clients' buying patterns, which leads to informed decisions. The ability to adapt and be flexible during negotiations is crucial for securing the best possible outcomes for our clients.

In a previous role, we faced an unexpected change in a client's marketing strategy just days before a major campaign launch. I quickly gathered my team to brainstorm alternative approaches and consulted our analytics to pivot effectively. This experience taught me the importance of remaining calm under pressure and leveraging teamwork to develop viable solutions.

To identify new media opportunities, I continuously monitor industry trends and emerging platforms. Networking with industry experts and attending relevant conferences can provide insights into innovative partnerships that align with our strategies. Conducting regular market research helps to evaluate potential areas for media expansion.

Effective team management begins with establishing clear expectations and fostering open communication. I prioritize nurturing talent by providing ongoing feedback and professional development opportunities. Encouraging collaboration and empowering team members to take ownership of their work keeps the team motivated and engaged.

My experience in presenting to clients involves thorough preparation and understanding the clients' unique perspectives. I focus on storytelling to connect our strategies and metrics with their objectives. Crafting visually engaging presentations that break down complex information helps facilitate discussion and ensure clarity.

Staying updated on media trends is essential in this field. I regularly read industry reports, subscribe to relevant newsletters, and engage in online communities. Additionally, I attend workshops and panels to learn from peers and industry leaders, which helps to keep me informed about the latest advancements and challenges in the media landscape.