Manager, Communications Design (Media Planner)

📌 Core Information

🔹 Job Title: Manager, Communications Design (Media Planner)

🔹 Company: IPG Mediabrands

🔹 Location: New York, United States

🔹 Job Type: On-site

🔹 Category: 📣 Marketing Communications (MarCom)

🔹 Date Posted: April 1, 2025

🔹 Experience Level: 2-5 years

🔹 Remote Status: On-site

📌 Essential Job Details

🚀 Job Overview

Key aspects of this role include:

• Managing and applying consumer, cultural, and media intelligence for impactful communication plans.
• Working with Associate Directors and Directors to deploy strategic design imperatives.
• Leading the development of media plan flowcharts with accuracy and data-rich fundamentals.
• Mentoring junior talent in media planning fundamentals and methodologies.

ASSUMPTION: The role is assumed to require strong analytical skills and an ability to synthesize diverse data sources into coherent media plans, given the focus on data-rich strategies and mentoring responsibilities.

📋 Key Responsibilities

✅ Create detailed media plans and analyze various media planning scenarios.

✅ Ensure timely and accurate delivery of requests and maintain organized communication and follow-up.

✅ Develop and organize client-facing industry and trend tracking documentation.

✅ Collaborate with internal and external partners to generate and execute RFPs.

✅ Oversee production and analysis of audience data for communication plans.

✅ Lead ideation sessions to develop creative media connections with the strategy and SBU teams.

✅ Regularly update clients and organize project follow-ups and planning sessions.

ASSUMPTION: It is assumed that responsibilities include both leadership in planning as well as detailed organizational tasks, requiring candidates to balance strategic and operational skills.

🎯 Required Qualifications

Education: No college degree required, indicating a focus on practical experience.

Experience: Experience required in integrated media planning positions with demonstrated capability in mentoring and teaching essential skills to junior staff.

Required Skills:

• Media planning and strategic analysis
• Strong communication and presentation abilities
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite

Preferred Skills:

• Over 4 years of relevant experience and 1+ years in a managerial capacity
• Time management and problem-solving aptitudes

ASSUMPTION: Given the emphasis on media planning and organizational skills, the role likely suits those with a strong background in both creativity and analytics.

💰 Compensation & Benefits

Salary Range: $80,000 - $90,000 USD per year

Benefits:

• Comprehensive health and dental coverage
• 401(k) retirement plan options
• Employee discount and stock purchase programs
• Paid family benefits and discretionary time off
• Wellness Days and Appreciation Weeks

Working Hours: Standard 40 hours per week

ASSUMPTION: The generous benefits package reflects a commitment to employee well-being and retention, likely aimed at drawing top talent in a competitive market.

📌 Applicant Insights

🔍 Company Context

Industry: Advertising Services

Company Size: 10,001+ employees, fostering a large and diverse working environment.

Founded: Not specified, but part of the Interpublic Group with a long history in media services.

Company Description:

• Manages over $47 billion in global marketing investments.
• Operates across various sectors including automotive and healthcare.
• Employs over 18,000 professionals worldwide in more than 130 countries.

Company Specialties:

• Media Planning & Buying
• Branded Content and Digital Media
• Hyper-Local and Multicultural Marketing

Company Website: https://www.ipgmediabrands.com/

ASSUMPTION: As a large, established company, IPG Mediabrands likely provides stability and ample resources for personal growth and development.

📊 Role Analysis

Career Level: Mid-level managerial position indicating a path for advancement in media planning and team management.

Reporting Structure: Reports to Associate Director or Director, collaborating closely with other teams.

Work Arrangement: On-site work in a collaborative, possibly high-paced environment.

Growth Opportunities:

• Mentorship and leadership development opportunities
• Exposure to pivotal media and communication strategies
• Potential for upward mobility into strategic roles

ASSUMPTION: The role likely offers significant learning prospects in media innovation and leadership within a global organization.

🌍 Location & Work Environment

Office Type: Professional, on-site environment with collaboration spaces.

Office Location(s): Headquartered in New York, NY with potential for international interaction.

Geographic Context:

• Located in a major media and business hub
• A diverse urban setting offering abundant networking prospects
• Accessibility to prominent industry events and resources

Work Schedule: Standard business hours with flexibility for project deadlines and team meetings.

ASSUMPTION: Being located in New York City, the role may involve high-paced work and frequent collaboration opportunities.

💼 Interview & Application Insights

Typical Process:

• Initial application review
• Phone or virtual screening
• In-depth interviews with managerial staff

Key Assessment Areas:

• Media planning expertise
• Ability to lead and develop teams
• Communication and presentation skills

Application Tips:

• Highlight specific media planning achievements
• Demonstrate leadership and teamwork experiences
• Tailor resume with industry-specific keywords

ATS Keywords: Media Planning, Client Management, Strategic Thinking, Data Analysis, Team Leadership

ASSUMPTION: The interview process might include practical assessments to evaluate strategic media planning skills.

🛠️ Tools & Technologies

• Media planning tools such as MediaTools or Lumina
• Data analysis platforms for audience insights
• Microsoft Office Suite for documentation and presentations

ASSUMPTION: Proficiency in advanced media planning and data analytics tools is critical for success in this role.

👔 Cultural Fit Considerations

Company Values:

• Commitment to diversity and inclusion
• Innovative and creative problem-solving
• Responsible media practices

Work Style:

• Collaborative and team-oriented
• Proactive and strategically driven
• Adaptable to changing industry demands

Self-Assessment Questions:

• Am I comfortable leading a team in a dynamic environment?
• Do I have strong analytical and strategic planning skills?
• Can I adapt my communication style to various stakeholders?

ASSUMPTION: Embracing individuality and imaginative solutions appears crucial for thriving at IPG Mediabrands.

⚠️ Potential Challenges

• High demand for creative and data-driven planning
• Balancing multiple project deadlines
• Keeping updated with industry trends
• Managing diverse team dynamics

ASSUMPTION: Adapting to a fast-paced, high-stakes environment may be challenging but rewarding for driven individuals.

📈 Similar Roles Comparison

• Media Planner at similar agencies could involve different client types/sizes.
• Variety in tools and software preferences across companies.
• Differences in company culture and values orientation.

ASSUMPTION: The role at IPG Mediabrands may offer broader exposure due to its international reach and diverse clientele.

📝 Sample Projects

• Developing multi-channel campaigns for high-profile brands
• Implementing innovative strategies for cultural events
• Creating comprehensive audience research reports

ASSUMPTION: The projects undertaken might require collaboration with global teams and multiple stakeholders.

❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview

• How does IPG Mediabrands support professional development?
• What is the typical timeline for moving into a more senior role?
• How does the company prioritize diversity and inclusion in its media strategies?
• What metrics are used to evaluate the success of media plans?
• How often does the team collaborate with international counterparts?

ASSUMPTION: These questions can help gauge alignment with the company's values and career growth opportunities.

📌 Next Steps for Applicants

To apply for this position:

• Submit your application through this link
• Ensure your resume is tailored to highlight media planning experience.
• Prepare for potential assessments in communication strategy.
• Follow up with a thank you and include questions about team structure.
• Connect on professional networking platforms like LinkedIn.

⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.