Media Business Unit Director at Publicis Groupe

Overview

• The Media Business Unit Director is responsible for leading all media aspects on the Toyota account. The Toyota account includes the following business units:  TSAM, TFS, Genuine, Hino and Toyota Insurance.  The role requires overseeing the delivery of integrated media strategy, planning, investment, and performance. The role demands a balance between strategic vision, operational excellence, and financial management to ensure consistent delivery of world-class media solutions that drive measurable business outcomes for clients.
• The Director serves as the senior client partner, providing thought leadership, media innovation, and strategic direction, while ensuring internal teams are aligned, motivated, and performing at the highest level.

Responsibilitie

Leadership & Strategic Direction

• Lead the business unit across all media disciplines (ATL, Digital, OOH, Social, Programmatic, Search, and Data Analytics).
• Define and deliver the strategic vision and long-term growth plan for the unit and its clients.
• Serve as senior advisor to client CMOs, Brand Directors, and Marketing Leadership, guiding data-driven decision-making.
• Drive integration between media, creative, data, and technology partners to deliver holistic communication solutions.
• Champion media effectiveness and innovation through audience-first and performance-driven planning.

Client Partnership & Business Growth

• Build and maintain strong C-suite relationships with key clients.
• Lead annual and quarterly business reviews across all divisions.
• Identify and drive incremental growth opportunities across existing clients and new business pitches.
• Oversee client satisfaction, ensuring delivery excellence and consistent value creation.
• Ensure the agency is seen as a trusted strategic partner rather than a service vendor.

 Operational & Financial Management

• Own P&L responsibility for the business unit — ensuring profitability, revenue growth, and cost efficiency.
• Oversee budgeting, forecasting, and commercial negotiations with clients and media partners.
• Manage fee structures, commission agreements, and operational costs in alignment with agency targets.
• Ensure accurate and timely billing, reconciliation, and compliance with procurement and finance policies.
• Champion operational discipline across PO/CE management, vendor alignment, and financial reporting processes.

Media Excellence & Innovation

• Oversee end-to-end media strategy, planning, buying, and performance analysis.
• Ensure adherence to global and regional media frameworks (e.g., MROI, PGOS, PlanIQ, Adverity).
• Drive adoption of data, automation, and measurement tools to enhance performance tracking and insights.
• Partner with media owners and tech platforms (Google, Meta, TikTok, eMedia, etc.) for joint innovation opportunities.
• Advocate for media accountability through effectiveness measurement, brand lift studies, and attention metrics.

Team Leadership & People Development

• Lead, mentor, and inspire a multidisciplinary team of planners, buyers, strategists, and analysts.
• Foster a culture of collaboration, inclusion, accountability, and continuous learning.
• Oversee talent recruitment, retention, and career development planning.
• Align individual and team goals to business objectives, ensuring clear roles and succession plans.
• Encourage cross-functional collaboration with creative, data, and production teams.

Investment (Apex & PMX)

• Work closely with the Publicis Media Investment Manager on Apex & PMX
• Monthly forecasting requirements
• Monthly attendance at Trading meetings

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, Business, or related field (Master’s preferred).
• 10+ years of experience in media planning, buying, or communications strategy.
• Proven track record in managing large client portfolios and complex teams.
• Strong financial management and commercial negotiation skills.
• Experience working with major advertisers (FMCG, Telco, Finance, or Retail sectors).
• Advanced knowledge of tools such as Nielsen, AdDynamix, DV360, Meta Ads Manager, Google Marketing Platform, IAS, PlanIQ, and Adverity.

Key Competencies

• Strategic thinking and business acumen.
• Deep understanding of media landscape (traditional, digital, and emerging platforms).
• Strong client relationship and stakeholder management skills.
• Financial literacy with P&L management experience.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to lead through change, ambiguity, and high-pressure environments.
• Data-driven mindset with an appreciation for creativity and innovation.

Performance Indicators

• Client satisfaction and retention.
• Revenue growth and profitability margins.
• Quality and innovation in media strategies and plans.
• Operational accuracy and compliance.
• Employee engagement and talent development metrics.