📌 Core Information
🔹 Job Title: UM - Media Buyer
🔹 Company: IPG Mediabrands
🔹 Location: Toronto, Ontario, Canada
🔹 Job Type: Full-time
🔹 Category: Advertising & Marketing
🔹 Date Posted: May 8, 2025
🔹 Experience Level: Associate (2-5 years)
🔹 Remote Status: On-site (Hybrid)
🚀 Job Overview
Key aspects of this role include:
- Preparing, negotiating, and documenting client media buys
- Working collaboratively with an integrated media investment team
- Developing and executing media schedules that meet campaign parameters
- Negotiating with media partners and managing budget control reports
- Proactively developing knowledge of the media landscape
ASSUMPTION: This role requires a balance of strong communication, analytical, and organizational skills, as well as a proactive approach to problem-solving and relationship-building with media partners.
📋 Key Responsibilities
✅ Negotiate media campaigns directly with sales representatives
✅ Purchase all assigned media to campaign parameters
✅ Request submissions for upcoming campaigns from media partners
✅ Develop a media schedule that satisfies campaign parameters and brand objectives
✅ Prepare and present pre-buy and post-buy reports
✅ Upload media buys and track changes with a high level of accuracy
✅ Solve and clear billing discrepancies/queries, and manage the budget control report (BCR) in a timely manner
✅ Execute all relevant revisions to the media buy
✅ Negotiate compensation as required
✅ Ensure clear communication with the planning teams
✅ Assist the Senior Buyer on the evaluation or cost value analysis of sponsorships and integrations and make recommendations where appropriate
✅ Explore promotional or value-added opportunities where applicable
✅ Proactively advise the team of any variations to execution of media plans
✅ Assist with training junior employees on tools and processes
✅ Assist with the preparation of media point of views (POVs)
✅ Prepare market analyses
✅ Conduct third party audits as required
✅ Continue to proactively develop knowledge of the media landscape
ASSUMPTION: This role involves a high degree of attention to detail and accuracy, as well as the ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines effectively.
🎯 Required Qualifications
Education: Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Advertising, or a related field
Experience: Associate-level experience (2-5 years) within the media industry with proven buying experience
Required Skills:
- Professional or educational background in Marketing or Advertising
- Strong analytical and financial acumen
- Excellent communication skills (both written and verbal)
- Highly developed organizational skills with professional attention to detail and accuracy
- Excellent ability to manage and prioritize time effectively
- Proactive approach to problem-solving, assisting the team, self-development, etc.
- Ability to work collaboratively as well as independently
- Ability to negotiate effectively
- Ability to develop and foster relationships with media partners
- Proficient with media research tools
- Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel and PowerPoint)
Preferred Skills:
- Bilingual (English/French) would be an asset
ASSUMPTION: Candidates with relevant industry experience and a strong portfolio demonstrating their skills and achievements will be given priority.
💰 Compensation & Benefits
Salary Range: CAD 60,000 - CAD 80,000 per year (Based on industry standards for an Associate-level role in Toronto)
Benefits:
- Generous paid time off with a minimum of 37 paid days off including vacation and monthly wellness days
- A flexible hybrid work model that works for you
- A focus on personal development with formal training opportunities, including mental health training and inclusion education for everyone
- The opportunity to contribute to the company culture by joining one of the many community-based employee groups
Working Hours: Full-time (40 hours per week) with flexible hours and a hybrid work arrangement
ASSUMPTION: The salary range provided is an estimate based on industry standards for an Associate-level role in Toronto. Actual compensation may vary based on experience, skills, and other factors.
📌 Applicant Insights
🔍 Company Context
Industry: Advertising Services
Company Size: 10,001+ employees (Global, with a significant presence in Toronto)
Founded: 1997 (as IPG Mediabrands, but the company has a rich history dating back to the 1950s)
Company Description:
- IPG Mediabrands is the media and marketing solutions division of Interpublic Group (NYSE: IPG)
- Manages over $47 billion in marketing investment globally on behalf of its clients
- Offers a full-service agency network, including UM, Initiative, and Mediahub, as well as specialized business units
- Clients include many of the world’s most recognizable and iconic brands from a broad portfolio of industry sectors
Company Specialties:
- Media Planning & Buying
- Automation & Programmatic
- Digital Media
- Branded Content
- Media Barter
- Online, Mobile, and Social Media Marketing
- Sponsorship and Sports Marketing
- ROI and Consumer Research
- Hyper-Local and Multicultural Marketing
- Out-Of-Home Advertising
Company Website: www.ipgmediabrands.com
ASSUMPTION: IPG Mediabrands is a global leader in media and marketing solutions, offering a wide range of services to its clients. This role is part of their UM agency, which focuses on blurring the lines between media and creativity, between data and content, between science and art.
📊 Role Analysis
Career Level: Associate (2-5 years of experience)
Reporting Structure: This role reports directly to the Supervisor or Manager within the buying group
Work Arrangement: Hybrid (a combination of on-site and remote work)
Growth Opportunities:
- Progression to Senior Buyer or other senior roles within the agency
- Expansion of skills and knowledge through training and development opportunities
- Potential to work on a diverse range of clients and campaigns
ASSUMPTION: This role offers a strong foundation for a career in media buying and investment, with opportunities for growth and development within the agency.
🌍 Location & Work Environment
Office Type: Modern, collaborative office space with state-of-the-art technology and amenities
Office Location(s): 100 W 33rd St, New York, NY 10001, US (Global headquarters) and Calle de Enrique Jardiel Poncela, 6, Madrid, Community of Madrid 28016, ES (EMEA headquarters)
Geographic Context:
- Toronto is a multicultural city with a vibrant arts and culture scene
- The office is located in the heart of downtown Toronto, offering easy access to public transportation, restaurants, and entertainment
- Toronto has a humid continental climate, with warm, humid summers and cold, snowy winters
Work Schedule: Full-time (40 hours per week) with flexible hours and a hybrid work arrangement
ASSUMPTION: The hybrid work arrangement allows for a balance between on-site collaboration and remote work, providing flexibility and a better work-life balance.
💼 Interview & Application Insights
Typical Process:
- Online application submission
- Phone or video screen with the Hiring Manager
- In-person or virtual interview with the Hiring Manager and a team member
- Final interview with the Director of Buying
Key Assessment Areas:
- Communication skills and ability to work collaboratively
- Analytical and problem-solving skills
- Attention to detail and accuracy
- Understanding of the media landscape and relevant tools
Application Tips:
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experience for this role
- Demonstrate your understanding of the media landscape and relevant tools in your application materials
- Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work collaboratively
ATS Keywords: Media Buying, Media Planning, Advertising, Marketing, Client Service, Negotiation, Relationship Building, Media Research Tools, Microsoft Office Suite
ASSUMPTION: The interview process is designed to assess your skills and cultural fit for the role, with a focus on communication, analytical, and organizational skills, as well as your ability to work collaboratively and proactively.
🛠️ Tools & Technologies
- Media research tools (e.g., Kantar, Nielsen, comScore)
- Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
- Media planning and buying platforms (e.g., Mediaocean, Adform)
- Project management tools (e.g., Asana, Trello)
ASSUMPTION: Familiarity with relevant media research tools and media planning and buying platforms is essential for success in this role.
👔 Cultural Fit Considerations
Company Values:
- Collaboration
- Creativity
- Curiosity
- Courage
- Cultural Intelligence
- Craftsmanship
- Courage
- Cultural Intelligence
- Craftsmanship
Work Style:
- Collaborative and team-oriented
- Data-driven and analytical
- Proactive and solutions-focused
- Adaptable and open to feedback
- Committed to continuous learning and development
Self-Assessment Questions:
- How do you approach building and maintaining relationships with media partners?
- Can you describe a time when you had to manage a complex project or campaign, and how you ensured its successful execution?
- How do you stay up-to-date with industry trends and developments in the media landscape?
ASSUMPTION: IPG Mediabrands values a diverse and inclusive work environment, with a strong focus on collaboration, creativity, and continuous learning and development.
⚠️ Potential Challenges
- Managing multiple tasks and deadlines effectively
- Attention to detail and accuracy in a fast-paced environment
- Adapting to changes in the media landscape and client needs
- Building and maintaining strong relationships with media partners
ASSUMPTION: These challenges can be overcome with strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and a proactive approach to problem-solving and relationship-building.
📈 Similar Roles Comparison
- Media Buyer vs. Media Planner: Media Buyers focus on the execution of media buys, while Media Planners are responsible for the strategic planning and positioning of media campaigns. This role combines both aspects to some extent.
- Advertising vs. Marketing: This role is focused on advertising, specifically media buying and investment. Marketing roles may involve a broader range of responsibilities, including brand management, market research, and campaign development.
- Associate vs. Senior/Mid-level roles: This role is at the associate level, offering opportunities for growth and development within the agency. Senior/Mid-level roles may involve more strategic decision-making, team leadership, and client management responsibilities.
ASSUMPTION: This role offers a unique blend of media buying, planning, and investment responsibilities, providing a strong foundation for a career in advertising and marketing.
📝 Sample Projects
- Developing a media schedule for a national brand campaign, including TV, radio, print, and digital channels
- Negotiating with media partners to secure the best possible rates and added value for a client's media buy
- Conducting a market analysis to identify trends and opportunities in the media landscape for a specific industry or client
ASSUMPTION: These sample projects demonstrate the range of responsibilities and skills required for success in this role, from strategic planning and negotiation to market analysis and execution.
❓ Key Questions to Ask During Interview
- What are the key priorities for this role in the first 30, 60, and 90 days?
- How does this role fit into the broader team and agency structure?
- What opportunities are there for professional development and growth within the agency?
- How does the agency support work-life balance for its employees?
- What is the company's approach to diversity, equity, and inclusion, and how does this role contribute to those efforts?
ASSUMPTION: These questions are designed to help you better understand the role, the team, and the company culture, as well as the opportunities for professional development and growth.
📌 Next Steps for Applicants
To apply for this position:
- Submit your application through this link
- Tailor your resume and cover letter to highlight your relevant skills and experience for this role
- Prepare for behavioral interview questions that focus on your problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and ability to work collaboratively
- Research the company and the role to demonstrate your understanding and enthusiasm for the opportunity
- Follow up with the hiring manager within one week of submitting your application to express your interest and reiterate your qualifications
⚠️ This job description contains AI-assisted information. Details should be verified directly with the employer before making decisions.
