Associate Director Strategy

Wunderman Thompson (DBA VML)
$75,000-$180,000 USD
United States, Michigan, Detroit
243 West Congress Street (Show on map)
Dec 05, 2025
WHO IS GTB? GTB (a VML company) is a global precision-marketing agency, creating ideas that inspire people to act. Founded in 2007 to accelerate performance for the world's most iconic brands, GTB is part of WPP's industry-leading network of companies driving creative transformation. GTB works across six continents with offices worldwide. THE OPPORTUNITY: ASSOCIATE DIRECTOR OF STRATEGY - MARKETING ACTIVATION Client: Ford POSITION SUMMARY Marketing Activation: With the goal of moving people from passive consumption to active participation, this role centers on the development of a strategic approach to the implementation and execution of memorable experiences intended to: Foster a deeper connection between Ford and key audiences Facilitate active participation in marketing efforts Yield specific next-step actions and responses This role will support both long-term Brand Activation projects and short-term Direct-Response Activation projects. A vital dimension of this role is to intensify the connection of activations from the Ford Brand level ("Tier 1") to the localized individual Ford Dealership level ("Tier 3"). MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES / PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTABILITIES: Supporting an Executive Strategy Director and Group Strategy Director in all Marketing Activation work Developing comprehensive Marketing Activation recommendations and best-practice knowledge-sharing among Ford Global, Ford National, regional Ford franchisee groups ("Tier 2"; also referred to as "FDAFs"), and Ford Dealership networks Supporting development of related data-collection plans to track consumer interactions, learn more about preferences and behaviors, and inform future efforts; working alongside internal Analytics partners Supporting development of related return-on-investment ("ROI") measurements to determine an effort's effectiveness, and optimize and improve ROI; working alongside internal Analytics partners Facilitating integration between Ford Global, Ford National, FDAF, and Ford Dealership efforts; realizing synergies and economies of scale where possible Facilitating multi-agency integration among all Marketing Activation efforts (WPP agencies; non-WPP agencies working with Ford; et al) Serving as a key agency Marketing Activation voice with Ford, FDAF, and Dealership clients of all levels of seniority Presenting work (POVs, briefs, proofs-of-concept, executional examples) to internal colleagues, clients, and others as warranted Leading the development of business-impacting POVs spanning industry, technology, audience, and cultural trends and insights Perform modified duties, additional duties, and other projects as assigned KNOWLEDGE AND SKILLS: Deep roots in "From Brand to Point-of-Sale" marketing communications strategy, with emphasis on Activation Extensive experience with creative development and execution for Activation endeavors Significant experience with sports and entertainment sponsorships, community impact partnerships, and influencer relationships Broad understanding of interrelationships among Global, Regional, Local branding and retail efforts Broad understanding of interrelationship between Brand and Franchisee networks Experience with Automotive industry desired, but not mandatory Strong ability to work on multiple projects simultaneously, and re-prioritize as needed MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: 7-10+ years of directly related experience, with at least three years of leadership experience in an agency-client relationships setting Bachelor's degree or equivalent experience preferred The base salary range for this position at the time of this posting is indicated below. Individual compensation varies based on job-related factors, including location, business needs, level of responsibility, experience, and qualifications. We offer a competitive benefits package, click WPP Benefits for more details. _ $75,000 — $180,000 USD We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we've adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office an average of four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process. WPP (GTB) is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers. VML is a WPP Agency. 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