About the role

Aplyr's Quick Take

This role is about supporting the media buying team in executing and managing media campaigns across various channels. You'll handle day-to-day buying tasks, monitor campaign performance, and ensure financial accuracy in media transactions. It's primarily an individual contributor role with a focus on analytics and relationship management.

Good fit

Ideal candidates are detail-oriented individuals with a background in media buying or advertising, likely with a few years of experience. A collaborative working style and strong analytical skills will help you thrive here.

Worth noting

The position emphasizes building relationships with media owners for better opportunities, which could be a unique aspect for those interested in networking. The spec is vague on day-to-day responsibilities beyond media buying support.

About WPP Media

WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands. With exceptional talent, trusted data and intelligence, and world-class partnerships – all united by our pioneering agentic marketing platform, WPP Open – we help clients navigate change, capture opportunity, and deliver transformational growth. 

WPP Media is WPP's AI-driven media operating unit, bringing together media, data, and partnerships to deliver creative personalisation at scale. Connected through WPP Open and powered by Open Intelligence, clients see exactly where, how, and why their media investment is working.

For more information, visit wppmedia.com.

Job Title: Internal Investment Media Buyer

Company: WPP Media South Africa

Location: Johannesburg, South Africa

Reports To: Investment Manager

Role Overview

The Investment Buyer will support the Investment team in delivering effective media buying strategies and executions across various channels, including television, radio, print, digital, and out-of-home. The role requires strong analytical skills, attention to detail, and a passion for media and advertising. The Investment Buyer will work closely with senior team members, agency partners, and media owners to ensure optimal investment outcomes for our clients.

Key Responsibilities

Media Buying Support

Assist in the planning and implementation of media buys across multiple platforms.
Monitor media bookings and ensure campaign delivery aligns with agreed plans.
Support in managing day-to-day buying activities and liaising with media owners.

Analysis & Reporting

Manage campaign budgets and billing to ensure accuracy and timely reconciliation.
Review supplier invoices against contracts and booked schedules, flagging discrepancies.
Support compliance with internal financial policies, audits, and governance requirements.
Vendor & Stakeholder Management
Build and maintain strong relationships with media owners, also ensuring access to market-first opportunities.
Partner with investment, planning, and client service teams to deliver integrated, results-driven solutions.
Maintain confidentiality on investment deals and agency trading arrangements.

Compliance & Process Excellence

Adhere strictly to company and client compliance frameworks, governance policies, and investment protocols.
Maintain accurate records of all buys, contracts, and rate negotiations.
Support process automation and standardization for efficiency and risk reduction.
Collaboration
Work closely with internal teams (planning, strategy, finance) to ensure smooth delivery.
Coordinate with finance to ensure timely invoice reconciliation and campaign cost tracking.

Market & Industry Insight

Keep up to date with media market trends, pricing, and opportunities to drive value.
Contribute to presentations and updates for clients and internal stakeholders.

Qualifications & Skills

Relevant tertiary qualification in Marketing, Media, Advertising, or related field.
0–2 years’ experience in media buying, planning, or advertising (internship experience will be considered).
Strong numerical and analytical skills with attention to detail.
Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, PowerPoint, and other reporting tools.
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
Ability to work under pressure, manage deadlines, and multitask effectively.

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Skills & Tags

go rust ai data marketing

Aplyr's read

WPP Media (GroupM) is a powerhouse in advertising, attracting professionals who thrive in dynamic, global marketing environments.
Synthesized from recent postings & public sources

What's promising

•GroupM offers a diverse range of roles across strategy, data, and creative fields.
•The company is part of WPP, providing access to a vast network of global resources.
•Strong focus on digital and programmatic advertising aligns with market trends.

What to watch

•High-pressure environment may not suit those seeking work-life balance.
•Complex organizational structure can lead to bureaucratic challenges.
•Frequent restructuring may cause job insecurity among employees.

Why WPP Media (GroupM)

•GroupM's scale allows for unparalleled access to global advertising data.
•Specialized roles in programmatic and digital media reflect cutting-edge industry practices.
•As part of WPP, GroupM benefits from a broad spectrum of marketing expertise.

Aplyr’s read is generated by AI from public sources. Was it useful?

About WPP Media (GroupM)

WPP Media (GroupM)

wpp.com

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WPP plc is a British multinational advertising and public relations company, known for providing a wide range of marketing and communications services.