Strategic Planner - CHI

  • Full-time
  • Strategy & Planning
  • Chicago, Illinois

Business Overview

WPP Unite Overview


There’s never been a more exciting time in marketing, as media and commerce continue to merge to drive meaningful consumer experiences. As one of the most innovative CPG companies in the world, Unilever, the maker of iconic brands such as Dove, Hellmann’s, TRESemmé, Degree and many others, is adapting to this rapidly changing landscape with the help of WPP and its unparalleled network of agencies. 

 

The newly-created unit, WPP Unite, will be the pioneering force at this intersection, led by two of WPP’s most dynamic agencies: GroupM and Barrows, operating as ONE end to end strategy, design, and execution powerhouse.

 

GroupM will bring their media thought-leadership and performance expertise, combined with the retail and commercial expertise of Barrows to deliver integrated, end-to-end programs for the entire Unilever portfolio of iconic, household brands. True to its name, the team operates with a unified vision, from initial strategy to final execution, leveraging our collective expertise in design, engineering, and media integration to craft world-class brand programming. 

 

WPP Unite, comprised of the best talent in the industry, will pioneer a truly integrated agency model and drive unprecedented growth for Unilever in the years to come.



Barrows


Barrows brings 40 years of expertise in retail design and marketing, and excels in leveraging insights and cutting-edge digital strategies to create engaging omni-channel experiences.



As a key part of WPP Unite, Barrows will  help shape the future of commerce marketing across renowned brand categories and retailers, and drive meaningful results for one of the world’s leading consumer goods companies.





Role & Responsibilities

Within the WPP Unite structure Barrows is looking for a Strategic Planner to join our dynamic team. We are looking for a passionate, vibrant and committed individual who is on top of digital, cultural and industry trends. The right person brings high energy and optimism into a team dynamic and possesses foundational strategic thinking driven by curiosity and resourcefulness. This person must be able to work in a fast-paced environment, and show-up with a drive to win every day. They must possess an immense level of efficiency, productivity, and innate analytical know-how, and be motivated by tasks that are both specific and ambiguous as they will be the key driver in creating and managing connected commerce ecosystems that align with our strategic goals. The role involves designing and executing integrated digital plans that seamlessly connect various online and offline touch points to enhance the shopper’s journey. 


In addition to bringing a killer attitude and energy, this individual must be able to:


  • Develop commerce go-to-market plans: create comprehensive tactical plans that integrate with broader strategy and creative, ensuring alignment with client objectives and market trends against retailer ecosystems
  • Coordinate with Internal Teams: Collaborate with creative, strategic and client teams to ensure that tactical plans are executed effectively and meet strategic goals
  • Campaign Execution Plan: Outline the commerce go to market plan, including setting up, monitoring, and optimizing digital content, and promotions.
  • Performance Metrics: Provide initial thoughts on ROI against each tactic and where applicable track and analyze key performance indicators (KPIs) to assess the effectiveness of digital strategies and adjust tactics based on data insights.
  • Stay Current with Trends: Keep up-to-date with industry trends, technologies, and best practices to ensure our tactical plans remain innovative and competitive.
  • Problem-Solving: Address and resolve any issues or challenges that arise during campaign execution, working proactively to find solutions and mitigate risks.
  • Storytelling: Be a compelling, consistent storyteller and presenter commanding presence in a room (or Zoom) with clients, partner agencies, retail partners and colleagues
  • Commerce Intelligence: Be well-versed and active in the commerce landscape understanding how brands win in the marketplace with speed & high impact. This includes knowledge of Retail Media Networks & innovation at each retailer.

Qualifications

  • 3+ years of marketing experience, preferably in a Strategy or Planning role
  • Strong storytelling ability and excellent presentation skills among clients and external retailer partners
  • Equally analytical and creative thinker with objective lens on varying consumer and shopper segments
  • Bring forth a passion for the psychology behind how and why shoppers make purchase decisions
  • Agency/in-house experience, knowledge and know-how in retail/consumer marketing, research and operations preferred
  • Deep knowledge of commerce and retail channels including: grocery, convenience, liquor, on-premise, with a strong understanding of retailer ecosystems and retail media networks
  • Experience with tactical journey mapping across the commerce landscape
  • Experience coordinating multiple strategic campaigns and brands across internal teams, client teams and partner agencies
  • Shopper marketing, path to purchase, and holistic 360-degree planning preferred
  • Highly collaborative, solution-oriented and aptitude to learn and adapt quickly
  • Ability to work in the office 3 days a week.

Salary & Benefits

*exact compensation will be determined based on individual experience


Benefits include:

  • Unlimited PTO
  • Medical, Dental, Vision (with an option for free medical care!)
  • 401K with a % match
  • Various maternity/paternity leave options
  • Fully funded disability and life insurance options
  • Headspace subscription
  • Wellness Stipend
  • and more....