Business Director, Innovation (Media Advertising)

Join an award-winning team at the heart of UK government, where your work will genuinely shape lives. As part of WPP 650 you'll be part of a supportive, collaborative environment that values curiosity, kindness, and growth. Together, we use behaviour change principles to design smarter services, influence better decisions, and help millions of people across the country. We are seeking a Business Director (BD), Innovation to serve as the key strategic and operational driver for our flagship UK Government account (WPP 650). Reporting directly to the VP, Innovation, this role is instrumental in developing breakthrough innovation strategies, designing cutting-edge thought-leadership frameworks, and translating complex technology/media trends into actionable public-sector campaigns.

Responsibilities

Develop breakthrough innovation strategies and thought-leadership frameworks for the UK Government account; Translate complex technology/media trends into actionable public-sector campaigns; Develop the UK Government Innovation Agenda; Design Solution Frameworks tailored to public-sector challenges; Integrate Multidisciplinary Insights with Citizen Consultancy and Behavioural Science teams; Embed DE&I into Experience Design; Operationalize the Innovation Pipeline; Coordinate with Data, Tech & Analytics; Partner with Department & Mission Hubs; Consult on High-Stakes Briefs; Lead Key Client Presentations & Workshops; Establish a Robust Test & Learn Culture; Cultivate Key Stakeholder Relationships; Directly Manage and Mentor 1 Account Manager; Upskill the Wider Agency; Oversee Strategy End-to-End; Bridge Strategy and Creative Tech; Collaborate with Specialist Divisions; Cultivate External Partner Ecosystems

Requirements

Strategy, creative, or technology-driven planning experience within a leading media agency, digital shop, or innovation consultancy; Strong strategic and analytical thinker with a deep understanding of digital media, experience design (CX), and emerging technologies (such as Applied AI, conversational interfaces, and immersive formats); Proven track record in strategy development — specifically in turning cultural insights and technological trends into multi-channel communication strategies; Collaborative mindset with experience working alongside specialized divisions, such as behavioral scientists, qualitative research consultancies, and DE&I advisory specialists; Direct report management experience with a passionate approach to mentoring junior talent, fostering their skills in strategic thinking and creative application; Impeccable presentation and storytelling skills, with the ability to confidently pitch bold, evidence-based ideas and command rooms of diverse stakeholders; Strong operational and organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple complex projects, keep delivery on track, and meet tight deadlines in a fast-paced environment; Experience in creating thought-leadership content, such as trends whitepapers, capability-building workshops, and client-facing educational playbooks; An active problem-solver and self-starter who naturally challenges the status quo and seeks out novel ways to improve processes.

Benefits

Competitive medical; group retirement plans; vision insurance; dental insurance; significant paid time off; preferential partner discounts; employee mental health awareness days; employee resource groups; in-office events; access to global WPP Media & WPP networks