Regional Activation Lead (FTC)

WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands. With exceptional talent, trusted data and intelligence, and world-class partnerships – all united by our pioneering agentic marketing platform, WPP Open – we help clients navigate change, capture opportunity, and deliver transformational growth. WPP Media is WPPs 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. EssenceMediacom, part of WPP, is a new breed of media agency. Grounded in analytics & insights and powered by data & technology, we believe in the power of media and creative to drive breakthroughs for the world’s best brands. We help clients understand the modern marketing paradox and discover the breakthroughs brands need to win with their consumers. We are designed for the new communications economy — built on data & technology, built for people & algorithms, built around diverse schools of thought, built to test & learn at scale, and, crucially, built to evolve. We are seeking a strategic, experienced Media Management & Delivery (MM&D) Lead for the Airbnb business. This role requires deep media expertise across planning and buying, with a strong understanding of the platform landscape and the ability to identify and unlock innovation opportunities that drive impact for Airbnb’s campaigns. The Lead will oversee a team of MM&D specialists, fostering strong collaboration across media, measurement, and cross‑functional teams. Reporting to the Global MM&D lead, Airbnb, this role will play an active part in the broader WPP and Airbnb media leadership communities to ensure alignment and best‑in‑class execution across markets. Key Responsibilities * Lead a team of 20+ media practitioners across markets, spanning multiple disciplines * Act as a trusted advisor to Airbnb, shaping and influencing strategy while constructively challenging where needed * Manage risks and opportunities across channels, proactively escalating key issues * Drive growth across the Airbnb business and support broader new business initiatives across regions * Oversee team growth, including recruitment, interviewing, and onboarding * Build strong relationships with key Airbnb stakeholders and platform partners, leading senior‑level communications (e.g., Media, Growth, and Marketing leadership) * Continuously monitor and improve client satisfaction * Contribute to agency‑wide initiatives to enhance processes and quality standards * Foster collaboration across functions (Data & MarTech, Ad Operations, Planning, Creative, and others) to deliver integrated, high‑impact outcomes * Lead regional‑to‑local orchestration, ensuring consistency of strategy while enabling local nuance and execution excellence across EMEA markets * Drive innovation agenda across platforms (e.g., AI‑driven initiatives, emerging formats, social, influencers, programmatic, creator ecosystems) in partnership with Airbnb and key partners Skills and Experience * Deep digital expertise across strategic planning and execution at scale, spanning channels, inclusive of social, programmatic, and others—applied to global, and local Airbnb campaigns * Proven track record partnering with senior stakeholders to define and lead high‑impact marketing initiatives across fast‑moving, consumer‑centric environments * Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire large, cross‑functional teams (50+), fostering collaboration across regions and disciplines * Strong executive presence, with a track record of presenting to and securing alignment from senior client leadership * Proven ability to drive innovation with platform partners (Meta, Google, TikTok, etc.), translating betas and new capabilities into measurable impact * Excellent interpersonal and stakeholder management skills, with the ability to navigate complex, matrixed organizations * Experience scaling campaigns globally, coordinating across markets, teams, and languages to drive consistency with local relevance * Deep appreciation for creative effectiveness, with experience shaping or influencing asset development for performance * Experience integrating or leveraging AI/automation in media workflows (e.g., optimization, creative iteration, insights generation) Life at WPP Media & Benefits Our passion for shaping the next era of media is powered by our commitment to Be Extraordinary, investing in our employees to inspire transformational creativity. We also Lead Optimistically, firmly believing in and Championing Growth and Development for every individual. This commitment allows WPP Media employees to leverage the extensive global WPP Media & WPP networks to pursue their passions, build vital professional connections, and learn at the cutting edge of marketing and advertising. We Create an Open environment built on trust and respect, where everyone feels they belong and has opportunities to progress. This inclusive culture is fostered through a variety of employee resource groups and frequent in‑office events showcasing team wins, sharing thought leadership, and celebrating holidays and milestone events. Our comprehensive benefits package reflects this commitment, including competitive medical, group retirement plans, vision, and dental insurance, significant paid time off, preferential partner discounts, and employee mental health awareness days. WPP Media is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to characteristics. We believe the best work happens when we’re together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection in this open and supportive environment. That’s why we’ve adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office around four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process. Please note this is a UK based role and requires individuals to have the right to work in this location. While we appreciate all applications received, only those candidates selected for an interview will be contacted. J-18808-Ljbffr