WPP Media is hiring an Associate Account Director for Performance Media to lead media buying strategy for a major entertainment app. You will focus on Mobile App Install (MAI) and Social channels, leading a team and owning client relationships within our collaborative media group.
What You'll Do
- Develop and deliver innovative, app-focused performance campaigns across key MAI and Social channels to meet client KPIs like CPI, CPA, and ROAS.
- Provide high-level strategic input into short-term and long-term media plans, aligning performance goals with client business objectives.
- Stay ahead of industry trends, platform updates, and competitive activity in entertainment and app marketing.
- Lead, mentor, and guide a team of two direct reports (Account Executive and Specialist), fostering professional growth and ensuring execution excellence.
- Oversee workload distribution, set clear objectives, and conduct regular performance reviews.
- Serve as the primary point of contact for key client stakeholders, building strong, trusted relationships.
- Own all aspects of channel performance, lead client meetings, present results, and articulate the story behind the data.
- Manage client expectations and communications regarding campaign performance, test plans, budget pacing, and strategic roadmaps.
- Take full ownership of account hygiene, ensuring flawless campaign setup, budget management, and accurate reporting.
- Develop and oversee robust testing plans (creative, audience, bidding strategies) to unlock new growth areas.
- Collaborate seamlessly with wider SEM and Brand teams to ensure an integrated media strategy.
What We're Looking For
- Bachelor's degree in a related field (Media & Advertising, Mass Communication, Digital Marketing, or Computer Science preferred).
- 5-7 years of progressive experience in a digital media or agency environment.
- At least 1-2 years of proven team leadership or mentorship experience.
- Well-versed in managing large-scale campaigns on Google Ads, Yahoo! Japan, Meta (Facebook/Instagram), LINE Ads, DV360, and Apple ads.
- Deep, practical understanding of digital marketing concepts, biddable media, performance marketing KPIs, and attribution models, especially within the mobile app ecosystem.
- Strong analytical, strategic thinking, and problem-solving skills with ability to translate complex data into actionable insights.
- Excellent communication, interpersonal, and presentation skills.
- Japanese language proficiency of at least N2 level for daily team management, client communication, and navigating local ad platforms.
- Business-level English proficiency for reporting and collaboration with international teams.
Nice to Have
- Direct experience managing large budgets for mobile app or gaming clients.
- Experience working within a global or matrixed organization.
Technical Stack
- Google Ads
- Yahoo! Japan
- Meta (Facebook/Instagram)
- LINE Ads
- DV360
- Apple ads
Team & Environment
You will lead a team of two direct reports (Account Executive and Specialist), as part of the Media Buying team for an entertainment app within a larger collaborative media group. You will report to the Group Account Director / Head of Media.
Benefits & Compensation
- Competitive medical, vision, and dental insurance
- Group retirement plans
- Significant paid time off
- Preferential partner discounts
- Employee mental health awareness days
- Access to global WPP Media & WPP networks for growth and learning
- In-office events and employee resource groups
Work Mode
This is a hybrid position based in Tokyo, Japan.
WPP Media is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect where everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress.
