Senior Project Manager

Company: VML
Location: Schiller Park
Posted on: January 2, 2026

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 multiple Senior Project Managers to lead and manage commerce initiatives and deliverables for a major client within the multinational food & beverage space. This role will be instrumental in driving omnichannel commerce strategies. We are looking for proactive and experienced individuals who understand the complexities of the CPG landscape, the nuances of shopper behavior, and the critical role of effective project management in delivering impactful commerce solutions. The Senior Project Manager will be a key driver in ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and aligned with the clients strategic objectives, while also navigating the unique requirements of various retail partners. What youll do: Work | Deliver exceptional shopper marketing and commerce programs that drive sales and brand engagement across various retail channels (e.g., e-commerce, in-store, mobile). Oversee the entire project lifecycle, from initial concept to final execution, ensuring alignment with client goals and retailer requirements. Identify dependencies and cascading impacts of delays, especially within the context of retailer-specific timelines and promotional calendars. Lead resource needs and availability across the office and network, working closely with department leads and recruiting. People | Motivate, direct, and challenge cross-functional teams (including creative, strategy, technology, and account management) to produce innovative and effective shopper marketing solutions. Establish and manage collaborative, efficient, and high-functioning teams across different locations. Increase efficiency across a group of accounts through effective management of staff resourcing. Oversee staff aggregate bandwidth, utilization, and realization rates, as well as retention and employee relations. Process | Establish and manage project/program communication and process, specifically tailored to the demands of shopper marketing and commerce projects. Leverage existing tools and processes to monitor people and progress. Collaborate with Project and Program needs to ensure the right resources are in place to deliver the work. Financials | Responsible for project estimation, planning, and profitability, with a strong focus on ROI and measurable results. Build detailed project plans that incorporate retailer-specific requirements and promotional timelines. Collaborate with Delivery leads for resourcing and scoping strategy across portfolio, partnering with finance and account teams. Partner with the Director of Project Management for resourcing strategy across the portfolio, and support Project Managers in resourcing to the scope. Who you are: Leader | Influences without authority and fosters an environment of shared accountability. Comfortable communicating and partnering with department leads, tailoring communications based on audience and level (technology, creative, finance, client, vendor). Builder | Navigates strong collaboration between people, processes and systems. Drives projects and resource management from ambiguity to clarity. Understands digital technologies and trends. Detail Oriented | Sharp attention to detail and a drive for perfection. Excellent problem-solving skills. Adept at completing high-intensity, high-volume tasks in a timely fashion. A Strong Communicator | Excellent communication and analytical skills. Conducts team and client meetings with clear, concise language and leadership acumen. A skilled, creative, confident presenter and negotiator. Shopper Marketing Savvy | Possesses a strong understanding of shopper behavior, retail environments, and the key drivers of purchase decisions. Familiar with various shopper marketing tactics, including promotions, displays, digital activations, and e-commerce strategies. What youll need: 3-5 years of experience managing projects in a professional environment, with agency or consulting environment preferred, specifically with a focus on shopper marketing and commerce projects for CPG clients. Experience working with major retailers and understanding their specific requirements for shopper marketing and commerce programs. Familiarity with CPG industry trends, competitive landscape, and key performance indicators (KPIs). Experience managing projects related to e-commerce platforms, online advertising, and digital promotions. 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 $60,000-$140,000 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: VML, Crystal Lake , Senior Project Manager, PR / Public Relations , Schiller Park, Illinois