Senior Commercial Manager

London Area, United Kingdom

12/3/2024

Who We Are

At VML, we are a beacon of innovation and growth in an ever-evolving world. Our heritage is built upon a century of combined expertise, where creativity meets technology, and diverse perspectives ignite inspiration. With the merger of VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson, we have forged a new path as a growth partner that is part creative agency, part consultancy, and part technology powerhouse.

Our global family now encompasses over 30,000 employees across 150+ offices in 64 markets, each contributing to a culture that values connection, belonging, and the power of differences. Our expertise spans the entire customer journey, offering deep insights in communications, commerce, consultancy, CRM, CX, data, production, and technology. We deliver end-to-end solutions that result in revolutionary work.

The Role

We are seeking a highly motivated and experienced Commercial Lead (Senior Commercial Manager) to join our best-in-class commercial function. This role is crucial for maximizing revenue growth and profitability across our extensive client portfolio. You will collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams, measure and sell value to clients, optimise P&Ls, and build strong relationships with senior stakeholders. This role requires a self-starter with strong analytical skills, commercial acumen, and the ability to thrive in a fast-paced environment.

What You'll Be Doing

• Financial Health and Client P&L Management:
• Full ownership of a multi-national, multi-agency client portfolio, ensuring accurate financial reporting and presentations
• Deliver live forecasts and manage quarterly budgets
• Prepare and review scopes of work, collaborating with Delivery Leads and Senior Client Leads
• Prepare internal reports on utilization, profitability, recoverability, and growth targets
• Lead procurement liaison and negotiations, supported by Commercial Seniors
• Complete Group, EMEA and Global reporting requirements
• Collaborate with experts to develop and market our offerings and capabilities
• Contract Negotiation and Management:
• Prepare framework agreements and service-specific schedules
• Liaise with subject matter experts, including legal counsel, during negotiations
• Ensure compliance with contractual terms, KPI monitoring and impacts on revenue
• Financial Operational Support:
• Ensure adherence to financial processes in conjunction with SOX obligations
• Act as a liaison between Account teams and Billers
• Produce and review Client Performance Dashboards and key Management Information, effectively translating financial data for non-financial colleagues
  

Who We're Looking For

• Proven experience at senior manager level, ability to thrive in a demanding environment within a large agency or group company
• Strong relationship-building skills, from junior staff to C-suite executives, navigating diverse personalities
• Ability to unify cross-functional teams, galvanize them behind a shared vision, and deliver exceptional work for internal and external stakeholders
• Excellent presentation and active listening skills, enabling clear communication and action planning
• Strong commercial acumen, analytical abilities, and a commitment to accuracy and meeting deadlines
• Experience with financial planning, forecasting, and budgeting
• Understanding of contract negotiation and legal considerations
• Ability to translate complex financial information into actionable insights for non-financial audiences
• Experience leading, mentoring, and developing high-performing teams
  
  

At VML, we are committed to fostering an all-inclusive work environment that is both rewarding and career-forward. Our Inclusion, Equity & Belonging initiatives, alongside the VML Foundation, reflect our dedication to giving back and making a positive impact in our communities and beyond. Our people are the heartbeat of our organization-creators, doers, innovators, makers, and thinkers-who drive not just marketing, but meaningful experiences that resonate in every action and interaction.

VML is a WPP Agency. For more information, please visit our website, and follow VML on our social channels via Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.

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