All Careers

Client Lead

VML

Department: Client Services

Location: Johannesburg, South Africa

Requisition ID: 8410

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're looking for:

Ignite the Engine of Innovation. Drive Ford's Future in South Africa.

Are you a passionate and driven marketing leader with a desire to shape the future of a global automotive icon? Do you thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment where innovation and collaboration fuel success? If so, VML South Africa has an electrifying opportunity for you.

As the Client Lead for Ford in South Africa, you will be the driving force behind their marketing strategies, leading a high-performing team to deliver groundbreaking campaigns that resonate with consumers and accelerate brand growth. This isn't just a job; it's a chance to leave your mark on the automotive landscape

What you'll be doing:

Be the Architect of Client Relationships:

  • Forge powerful partnerships with senior stakeholders at Ford South Africa, becoming their trusted advisor and strategic confidante.
  • Anticipate client needs and proactively develop innovative solutions that exceed expectations, driving value and solidifying VML's position as a strategic partner.
  • Lead compelling presentations and workshops, showcasing your team's brilliance and inspiring Ford to embrace cutting-edge marketing strategies.

Empower and Inspire Your Team:

  • Cultivate a collaborative and high-performance environment where your team thrives, fostering individual growth and celebrating collective achievements.
  • Mentor and guide your team members, empowering them to reach their full potential and become the next generation of marketing leaders.

Orchestrate Marketing Masterpieces:

  • Collaborate with strategic and creative minds to develop integrated marketing campaigns that capture the imagination and drive measurable results.
  • Oversee the execution of campaigns with precision and passion, ensuring flawless delivery and maximizing impact across all channels.
  • Analyze campaign performance with a data-driven lens, uncovering insights that fuel continuous improvement and optimization.

Steer the Course of Innovation:

  • Embrace emerging technologies and trends, constantly seeking new and innovative ways to elevate Ford's brand presence and engage consumers.
  • Be a champion for creativity and innovation, inspiring your team and the client to push boundaries and explore uncharted territories.

What you'll need:

  • Bachelor’s degree in business, Marketing, or a related field, coupled with 12-15 years of experience leading and inspiring marketing teams.
  • A proven track record of managing major marketing campaigns for international brands, preferably within the automotive industry, showcasing your ability to navigate complex challenges and deliver exceptional results.
  • An intimate understanding of the South African marketing landscape, including consumer behavior, media trends, and competitive dynamics.
  • Exceptional communication, negotiation, and presentation skills, with the ability to command attention and inspire action.
  • A strong analytical mind, capable of extracting insights from data and translating them into actionable strategies.
  • A passion for the automotive industry and a desire to drive Ford's success in South Africa.

If you're ready to ignite your career and drive the future of automotive marketing, we encourage you to apply. Join VML South Africa and become part of a team that's shaping the future of brands. #LI-HYBRID #LI-EMEA

At VML, we are committed to fostering an all-inclusive work environment that is both rewarding and career-forward. Our Inclusion, Equity & Belonging initiatives, alongside the VML Foundation, reflect our dedication to giving back and making a positive impact in our communities and beyond. Our people are the heartbeat of our organization—creators, doers, innovators, makers, and thinkers—who drive not just marketing, but meaningful experiences that resonate in every action and interaction. 

VML is a WPP Agency. For more information, please visit our website, and follow VML on our social channels via Instagram, LinkedIn, and X. 

When you click "Submit Application", this will send any information you add below to VML. Before you do this, we think it's a good idea to read through our Recruitment Privacy Policy. California residents should read our California Recruitment Privacy Notice. This explains what we do with your personal data when you apply for a role with us, and, how you can update the information you have provided us with or how to remove it.

When you click "Submit Application", this will send any information you add below to VML. Before you do this, we think it's a good idea to read through our Recruitment Privacy Policy. California residents should read our California Recruitment Privacy Notice. This explains what we do with your personal data when you apply for a role with us, and, how you can update the information you have provided us with or how to remove it.