📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: Chief Growth Officer, Paris
🔹 Company: Burson
🔹 Location: Paris, Île-de-France, France
🔹 Job Type: Full-time
🔹 Category: Public Relations and Communications Services
🔹 Date Posted: June 5, 2025
🔹 Experience Level: 10+ years
🔹 Remote Status: Hybrid (4 days in office)
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Developing and implementing a robust business development strategy
- Securing new business opportunities and fostering long-term client relationships
- Leading and overseeing the RFP process and proposal development
- Driving and inspiring the Growth Community within Burson France
- Operational growth management, including budgeting and resource planning
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a strategic and visionary leader with a proven track record in business development within integrated communications, PR, or advertising agencies. A data-driven mindset and the ability to navigate complex, multicultural business landscapes are essential.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Define and implement a clear strategic growth plan that aligns with Burson’s global and EMEA growth objectives
✅ Identify and secure new business opportunities, proactively engaging with potential clients
✅ Lead and oversee the RFP process, ensuring best-in-class proposal development
✅ Drive and inspire the Growth Community within Burson France, fostering a culture of collaboration and innovation
✅ Develop scopes of work with clear budgeting and resource planning to optimize operational efficiency and maximize profitability
ASSUMPTION: The ideal candidate will have a strong understanding of the communications industry, with a focus on reputation management, and be able to position Burson as the premier partner in this field.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, Communications, or a related field (Master's degree preferred)
Experience: 10+ years of experience in business development, with at least 5 years in a leadership role
Required Skills:
- Proven track record in business development within integrated communications, PR, or advertising agencies
- Data-driven and results-oriented mindset
- Fluency in English and experience working in international environments
- Strong ability to understand client needs and position Burson as a premier partner
- Innovative thinker with a passion for driving growth and innovation
Preferred Skills:
- Fluency in French
- Experience working in the French market
- Strong network within the communications industry
ASSUMPTION: While not explicitly stated, a strong understanding of the French market and local business culture would be beneficial for this role.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: €120,000 - €160,000 per year (based on industry standards for a senior-level role in Paris)
Benefits:
- Professional development opportunities
- Mentorship programs with industry leaders
- Inclusive company culture fostering collaboration and innovation
- Recognition programs for top talent
Working Hours: Full-time, with a hybrid work arrangement (4 days in the office)
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for a senior-level role in Paris. The actual salary may vary depending on the candidate's experience and qualifications.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Public Relations and Communications Services
Company Size: Burson is a large company with 5,001-10,000 employees globally, offering a dynamic environment for ambitious professionals
Founded: Burson was founded in 1953 and has since grown into a global leader in communications, purpose-built to create value for clients through reputation
Company Description:
- Burson is the global leader in communications, reinventing how reputation creates competitive advantage for clients
- The company serves a diverse range of clients across various industries, helping them build, protect, and elevate their image
- Burson is part of WPP (LSE/NYSE: WPP), the creative transformation company
Company Specialties:
- Reputation management
- Strategic communications
- Crisis communications
- Public affairs
Company Website: bursonglobal.com
ASSUMPTION: Burson's global presence and extensive experience in the communications industry make it an attractive employer for professionals seeking to advance their careers in this field.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: Senior-level, strategic role with significant impact on the company's growth and market position
Reporting Structure: The Chief Growth Officer reports directly to the CEO and works closely with the leadership team to drive business development strategies
Work Arrangement: Hybrid work arrangement, with teams in the office around four days a week
Growth Opportunities:
- Potential to shape the future trajectory of Burson France
- Opportunities to collaborate with and learn from industry leaders
- Possibility to expand the role's scope and influence as the company grows
ASSUMPTION: This role offers significant growth potential for the right candidate, with the opportunity to make a tangible impact on the company's success.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Modern, collaborative office space in Paris
Office Location(s): Paris, France
Geographic Context:
- Paris is a major global city with a vibrant business ecosystem
- The city offers a high quality of life, with numerous cultural attractions and amenities
- Paris is a hub for the communications and advertising industries
Work Schedule: Full-time, with a hybrid work arrangement (4 days in the office)
ASSUMPTION: The hybrid work arrangement offers a good balance between in-office collaboration and remote flexibility, allowing employees to maintain a healthy work-life balance.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Initial phone or video screen to assess cultural fit and basic qualifications
- In-depth interviews with key stakeholders, including the CEO and other members of the leadership team
- Case study or presentation to demonstrate strategic thinking and problem-solving skills
Key Assessment Areas:
- Strategic thinking and business acumen
- Communication and presentation skills
- Cultural fit and alignment with Burson's values
- Problem-solving and analytical skills
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your business development experience and achievements
- Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your problem-solving skills and ability to work collaboratively
- Research Burson's clients and industry trends to demonstrate your understanding of the company and its market
ATS Keywords: Business development, strategic leadership, new business opportunities, proposal development, market positioning, operational efficiency, growth strategy, reputation management, networking, cultural awareness, team leadership
ASSUMPTION: Burson uses an Applicant Tracking System (ATS) to manage job applications, so incorporating relevant keywords into your resume and cover letter can help improve your chances of being selected for an interview.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- CRM software (e.g., Salesforce, HubSpot)
- Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello)
ASSUMPTION: While not explicitly stated, proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite and CRM software is likely required for this role, as well as familiarity with project management tools.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Integrity
- Collaboration
- Creativity
- Accountability
Work Style:
- Fast-paced and dynamic environment
- Focus on strategic thinking and innovation
- Collaborative and inclusive culture
Self-Assessment Questions:
- Do you thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment?
- Are you comfortable working collaboratively and driving growth through strategic partnerships?
- Do you have a proven track record of success in business development within the communications industry?
ASSUMPTION: Burson values candidates who are strategic thinkers, innovative, and able to work effectively in a collaborative environment.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Managing a diverse portfolio of clients with varying needs and expectations
- Navigating a complex, multicultural business landscape
- Balancing short-term business development goals with long-term strategic objectives
- Adapting to the unique cultural and business environment of the French market
ASSUMPTION: These challenges require a strategic and adaptable leader with strong communication and interpersonal skills, as well as a deep understanding of the communications industry and the French market.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- This role is similar to a Business Development Director or Vice President of Business Development within the communications or consulting industries
- However, the Chief Growth Officer role at Burson France carries additional strategic responsibilities and a broader scope of influence
- Career progression in this role could lead to a global leadership position within Burson's EMEA or global network
ASSUMPTION: While this role shares similarities with other business development positions, its unique strategic focus and global impact set it apart within the industry.
📝 Sample Projects
- Developing and executing a strategic growth plan for Burson France, including market analysis, competitive landscape assessment, and identification of new business opportunities
- Leading a cross-functional team to secure a major new client, including proposal development, pitch presentation, and negotiation
- Implementing operational efficiency improvements, such as streamlining processes, optimizing resource allocation, and enhancing data-driven decision-making
ASSUMPTION: These sample projects illustrate the strategic, collaborative, and operational aspects of the Chief Growth Officer role at Burson France.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- What are the top priorities for the first 90 days in this role?
- How does this role collaborate with other members of the leadership team to drive business development strategies?
- What are the key challenges facing Burson France in the current market landscape, and how can this role address them?
- What opportunities exist for growth and professional development within Burson's global network?
- How does Burson support work-life balance for its employees, particularly in a hybrid work arrangement?
ASSUMPTION: These questions demonstrate your interest in the role's strategic aspects, collaborative nature, and potential for growth and development.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through the Burson Careers portal
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your business development experience and achievements
- Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your problem-solving skills and ability to work collaboratively
- Research Burson's clients and industry trends to demonstrate your understanding of the company and its market
- Follow up with the hiring team one week after submitting your application to express your continued interest in the role
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
