WPP Media | (EM) Media Planning Director

Confirmed live in the last 24 hours

WPP

Tokyo, Japan

Hybrid

Posted March 9, 2026

Job Description

WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands.

We unite cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, world-class creativity, next-generation production, transformative enterprise solutions and expert strategic counsel in a single company – powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing platform, WPP Open, to help our clients navigate change, capture opportunity and deliver transformational growth.

We have been building the world's most valuable brands for 50 years and have global reach across 100+ markets, with deep local expertise.

Our people are the key to our success. We're committed to fostering a culture of creativity, belonging and continuous learning, attracting and developing the brightest talent, and providing exciting career opportunities that help our people grow.

For more information, visit WPP.com.

Role Objective

The Planning Director is responsible for delivering high-quality, consistent media plan recommendations grounded in a deep understanding of the client’s category, brand challenges, and business objectives. This role translates business objectives into clear communications strategies, defines measurable KPIs, and drives innovation informed by robust audience and consumer insight.

As a senior leadership role, the Planning Director plays a critical part in managing senior client relationships, leading integrated planning efforts, and developing high-performing teams.

Key Responsibilities

Media Planning & Strategy Leadership

Lead the development, presentation, and execution of full-funnel media strategies across channels including TV, OOH, and digital
Translate business and marketing objectives into clear communications objectives and measurement frameworks
Provide strategic insight and analysis to support data-driven recommendations and long-term planning decisions
Maintain strong relationships with key media partners and lead negotiations to maximize value and outcomes for clients
Coordinate closely with partner agencies to ensure integrated, best-in-class delivery

Client Leadership & Account Management

Build and maintain trusted senior relationships with clients, acting as a strategic planning advisor
Lead relevant components of client meetings, campaign approach presentations, workshops, and strategic reviews
Collaborate with global and regional EssenceMediacom teams to ensure work meets global quality standards
Keep clients informed of industry trends, emerging best practices, and innovations relevant to their business

Operating & Technical Excellence

Apply a data-driven approach, leveraging platforms and tools to analyze competitive spend, consumer behavior, category trends, and campaign performance
Interpret and synthesize consumer insight and competitive research into actionable planning recommendations
Demonstrate strong understanding of the Japanese media landscape alongside integrated planning principles
Champion the adoption of WPP planning and AI tools, empowering teams to embed them into day-to-day workflows

People Leadership

Partner with the Client VP to develop team capability, skills, and subject-matter expertise
Mentor and guide team members, encouraging innovative thinking and continuous improvement
Provide clear direction, feedback, and support to drive performance and professional growth