Account Director (Commerce)
Location: Schiller Park
Posted on: June 23, 2025
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Job Description:
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. Who we are looking for: VML is
seeking an Account Director to manage program development,
execution activities while driving brand strategy through retail
partners and influencing the shopper along the omni-channel path to
purchase. Ensure program success by building and maintaining strong
customer relationships through delivery of expert counsel,
understanding of the business, flawless execution, and achievement
of objectives. This role is working on the largest brand for the
largest retailer! What youll do: Build rapport and credibility with
day-to-day and senior level clients based on trust and expert
strategic counsel Serve as an expert in the clients business and
category, staying abreast of competitors, product development and
market trends, and sharing information with internal team members
Stay alert for opportunities to grow client business; research
clients category and competitive landscape; define key strategic
issues and opportunities for the brand/category and impact on
clients objectives; author POVs and strategies to address
issues/opportunities and present to client Develop and execute
marketing solutions to address clients challenges Provide
well-grounded marketing recommendations and ideas to clients based
on their objectives and business needs Own development of
proposals/presentations with input from account lead Collaborate
with the client, account director, strategy and creative to develop
creative briefs Manage the creative development process from
concept phase through to production Evaluate copy, layouts,
artwork, media plans and productions materials and make suggested
revisions in keeping with agreed upon strategy and business
objectives Quickly and effectively resolve client problems/concerns
to ensure client satisfaction Evaluate effectiveness of marketing
program, make recommendations to optimize future iterations of the
program and determine next steps Lead internal and client meetings,
presentations and calls; prepare relevant documents, including
agendas, presentation decks and follow up communications, etc.
Manage project scopes and budgets; alert client of financial and
timing implications of their request(s); secure client approval to
proceed; and revise budgets as needed Keep agency team informed of
client requests and changes; anticipate potential problems and
potential implications; proactively develop and execute solutions;
allocate necessary resources Who you are: Able to build
relationships and collaborate effectively with clients, agency
partners, other departments and teams to successfully deliver
quality work Able to communicate clearly, thoroughly, succinctly
and in a timely manner both verbally and in writing; responds to
comments, suggestions and criticisms in a thoughtful and
constructive manner Strong presentation skills; successfully
presents and sells new thinking, strategies and/or ideas to clients
Strong attention to detail, organization and process orientation,
demonstrated through actively and effectively managing timelines,
budgets, and deliverables for multiple projects simultaneously What
youll need: 10 years of advertising or marketing experience; agency
experience required Shopper marketing/retailer experience: Walmart
required. Knowledge in other retailers such as Kroger, Walgreens,
etc highly preferred Comprehensive knowledge of client category and
business objectives, and a clear understanding of the key strategic
issues that impact the clients business Experience managing and/or
mentoring individuals and providing actionable constructive
feedback Strong leadership, client management, and communication
skills What we offer: Passionate, driven people | We champion a
culture of people that do extraordinary work. Consciously
cultivated culture | We aim to embody the behaviors to build an
inclusive community that is in it together, bringing both
positivity and active listening into the workplace as we
simultaneously strive to empower creative bravery. Competitive
benefits | What we offer full time hires ranges from the full
spectrum of group health coverage options (medical, dental, vision)
to a generous 401k match (100% dollar-for-dollar match, up to 5% of
salary contribution), and a variety of paid time off offerings that
reflect our investment in all aspects of your overall life balance
and wellness. Growth-minded opportunities | We aim to nurture a
culture of real-time feedback, growth-oriented mindset, and plenty
of training opportunities through VML and WPP, so you can continue
to grow personally and professionally. The base salary range for
this position at the time of this posting is indicated below.
Individual compensation varies based on job-related factors,
including location, business needs, level of responsibility,
experience, and qualifications. We offer a competitive benefits
package. $75,000-$180,000 USD We believe the best work happens when
were together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection.
Thats why weve adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office
an average of four days a week. If you require accommodations or
flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the
interview process. WPP (VML) is an equal opportunity employer and
considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or
regard to characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture
of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same
opportunities to progress in their careers.
Keywords: , Crystal Lake , Account Director (Commerce), PR / Public Relations , Schiller Park, Illinois
