Associate Director - Activation

About WPP Media 

WPP is the creative transformation company. We use the power of creativity to build better futures for our people, planet, clients and communities. For more information, visit wpp.com. 

WPP Media is WPP’s global media collective. In a world where media is everywhere and in everything, we bring the best platform, people, and partners together to create limitless opportunities for growth. For more information, visit wppmedia.com 

At WPP Media, we believe in the power of our culture and our people. It’s what elevates us to deliver exceptional experiences for both our clients and each other. In this role it will be critical to embrace WPP & WPP Media’s shared core values: 

• Be Extraordinary by Leading Collectively to Inspire transformational Creativity. 
• Create an Open environment by Balancing People and Client Experiences by Cultivating Trust. 
• Lead Optimistically by Championing Growth and Development to Mobilize the Enterprise.

Role Overview
The Operations Manager will be accountable for end-to-end planning, execution, and client servicing for large-scale urban activations and events. The role requires a strong command over on-ground operations, cross-functional coordination, vendor management, and financial stewardship to ensure seamless delivery of high-quality projects.

Key Responsibilities

1. Project Planning & Execution

• Lead comprehensive project planning, including scoping, timelines, resource allocation, and operational workflows.
• Drive implementation of all on-ground activation elements, ensuring adherence to brand guidelines and safety compliance.
• Conduct site recces, feasibility assessments, and risk evaluations to build robust execution plans.

1. Vendor & Partner Management

• Identify, onboard, and manage vendors across fabrication, manpower, logistics, technology, and production verticals.
• Oversee vendor performance and quality control across all execution stages.
• Maintain strong industry relationships and vendor contacts to optimize cost, efficiency, and service standards.

1. Costing, Budgeting & Negotiation

• Prepare detailed project costings and budgets with accuracy and transparency.
• Lead commercial negotiations to secure competitive rates while maintaining quality benchmarks.
• Track project spends, manage invoicing documentation, and ensure financial discipline.

1. Client Servicing & Stakeholder Management

• Act as the primary operational point of contact for clients and Business teams, ensuring proactive communication and expectation management.
• Present plans, MIS updates, weekly progress reports, and post-event documentation with clarity and precision.
• Resolve operational challenges swiftly, ensuring high client satisfaction and repeat business.

1. Team Leadership & Cross-Functional Coordination

• Guide internal teams (creative, operations, finance, procurement) to deliver cohesive project outcomes.
• Mentor junior t