Project Manager

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 a Project Manager to support commerce initiatives and deliverables for major clients within the CPG space. This role will be instrumental in driving omnichannel commerce strategies and execution across an IAT model of WPP agencies. We are looking for a detail-oriented and motivated individual who has experience working in or with the CPG space and understands the fundamentals of shopper behavior and commerce marketing. The Project Manager will assist in ensuring deliverables are completed on time, within budget, and aligned with the client's strategic objectives, while also navigating the unique requirements of various retail partners.

What you’ll do:

• Work | Support the delivery of exceptional shopper marketing and commerce programs that drive sales and brand engagement across various retail channels (e.g., e-commerce, in-store, mobile). Assist in overseeing the project lifecycle, from initial concept to final execution, ensuring alignment with client goals and retailer requirements. Help identify dependencies and cascading impacts of delays, especially within the context of retailer-specific timelines and promotional calendars. Assist in coordinating resource needs and availability across the office and network, working closely with department leads and recruiting.
• People | Support cross-functional teams (including creative, strategy, technology, and account management) to produce innovative and effective shopper marketing solutions. Assist in establishing and managing collaborative, efficient, and high-functioning teams across different locations. Contribute to increasing efficiency across a group of accounts through effective management of staff resourcing.
• Process | Assist in establishing and managing project/program communication and process, specifically tailored to the demands of shopper marketing and commerce projects. Utilize 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 | Assist in project estimation, planning, and profitability, with a focus on ROI and measurable results. Help 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.

Who you are:

• Collaborator | Supports strong collaboration between people, processes, and systems. Helps drive projects and resource management, clarifying ambiguities. Familiar with digital technologies and trends.
• Detail-Oriented | Pays close attention to detail and strives for accuracy. Excellent problem-solving skills. Capable of completing high-intensity, high-volume tasks efficiently.
• Effective Communicator | Good communication and analytical skills. Participates in team and client meetings, using clear, concise language. A skilled presenter.
• Shopper Marketing Knowledge | Possesses a good 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 you'll need:

• 3-5 years of experience assisting in managing projects in a professional environment, with agency or consulting environment preferred. Experience with a focus on shopper marketing and commerce projects for CPG clients is preferred.
• Experience supporting projects involving major retailers and familiarity with their general requirements for shopper marketing and commerce programs.
• General awareness of CPG industry trends, competitive landscape, and key performance indicators (KPIs).
• Experience assisti