Associate Director, Research Insights

WPP Media is WPP's AI-driven media operating unit, bringing together media, data, and partnerships to deliver creative personalisation at scale. Connected through WPP Open and powered by Open Intelligence, clients see exactly where, how, and why their media investment is working.

Responsibilities

Manage research projects supporting planning, investment and client teams; Translate business questions into appropriate research approaches using available data, tools and resources; Analyze audience, consumer, competitive and marketplace information to develop actionable insights and recommendations; Develop presentations, POVs and research materials for internal and client-facing audiences; Contribute to larger WPP Media research and thought-leadership initiatives; Leverage AI and emerging technologies to enhance research, deepen analysis and automate repeatable workflows where appropriate; Stay informed on relevant consumer, media, advertising and research trends; Partner with planning, investment and client teams on research and insight requirements, including more complex or bespoke requests; Help teams identify and use the most appropriate research resources for their needs; Present and communicate findings clearly to internal teams and, where appropriate, clients; Manage multiple projects and requests while maintaining quality and timelines; Develop strong familiarity with WPP Media's portfolio of syndicated research, competitive intelligence and planning tools; Support teams in accessing and effectively using available research resources; Help evaluate new tools, data sources and emerging technologies based on agency and client requirements; Work with research partners and vendors to resolve questions and support effective use of their platforms; Support the Director with the coordination of Research and data contracts, subscriptions and renewals; Assist with vendor, licensing, access and data-usage requirements across WPP Media; Work with internal teams including Procurement and Finance as required to support Research operations; Help track usage and business requirements across Research tools and data resources; Provide coverage and support across Research operational responsibilities as required

Requirements

6–8+ years of experience in media research, consumer insights, media planning, analytics or a related field; Broad understanding of the media and advertising ecosystem across traditional and digital channels; Experience with syndicated research, audience, consumer and/or competitive intelligence resources; Ability to independently manage research projects from initial brief through analysis and presentation; Strong analytical skills and ability to translate data into clear insights and recommendations; Strong written and verbal communication skills; Good project management and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities; Proficiency with AI-enabled tools and LLMs, with the curiosity and judgment to apply emerging technologies to research, analysis and productivity; Proficiency in Excel and PowerPoint and familiarity with major media and research platforms

Nice to have

Experience working with planning, investment, strategy or client teams

Benefits

Competitive medical insurance; Group retirement plans; Vision insurance; Dental insurance; Significant paid time off; Preferential partner discounts; Employee mental health awareness days; Employee resource groups; Professional development and learning opportunities