Who we are looking for:

VML is looking for a Director, Communications to join its Global and North America team. The role is based in Detroit, and responsible for leading external media relations and identifying opportunities for showcasing thought leadership of our leaders with a focus on the global WPP|Ford portfolio. This role will also lend support to the wider Marcomms team across the global network. 

The ideal candidate will be an experienced media relations professional with the ability to pitch and secure trade and business stories on behalf of the WPP | Ford team  with key emphasis on VML agencies including GTB, Hudson Rouge and Zubi, working in close coordination with the agency’s wider reputational strategy, growth objectives and departmental needs. 

We are seeking an individual with strong thought leadership acumen, top notch editing and writing skills, and knowledge of the broader advertising industry and the emerging trends affecting it. 

This role reports to the Managing Director, Communication and will work closely with the key stakeholders across the Marcomms team (Chief Communications Officer & CMO), as well as the Ford team including Robert Guay (WPP | Ford lead). 

What you’ll do: 

• Pitch and secure press for WPP | Ford initiatives – product launches, creative campaigns, new talent/hires, thought leadership aligned to Ford’s business.
• Pitch and secure WPP | Ford and VML agency spokespeople within key speaking engagements and events. 
• Maintain trusted, productive relationships with reporters as well as key publications for sponsorship and speaking opportunities. 
• Develop thought leadership content from agency leadership for various placements including but not limited to published op eds, expert commentary, conference speaking engagements, agency hosted events, and more. 
• Plan and executive bespoke agency events alongside WPP | Ford & VML leadership in Detroit to engage Ford clients in trending and relevant topics for the automotive / advertising industry.
• Communicate regularly and collaborate with wider Marcomms team to amplify news and content across VML’s owned channels (social, global newsletters, intranet, events, etc.) as well as WPP owned channels. 
• Be informed on media landscape, editorial calendars, best industry practices, innovations, competitor activity, and other emerging opportunities. 
• Identify, assess and execute on high-value sponsorship opportunities, including charitable event opportunities. 
• Deliver timely reporting for quarterly marketing and communications reports to capture key results for external press and thought leadership. 
• Collaborate with WPP / VML Ford leaders on internal communications to ensure connectivity and provide editorial review
• Lead communications related opportunities to further promote VML’s work in supporting the Detroit Experience Studio. 
• Collaborate with VML Marcomms team to support social media and website presence for GTB, Hudson Rouge and Zubi – ensuring relevance and engagement. 
• Partner with VML Detroit leadership on press opportunities for non-Ford related business news and creative work announcements (e.g.Carthartt)

What you’ll need: 

• 10+ years related experience, preferably with a mid- to large size media agency or PR agency 
• Bachelor’s degree (preferred academic focus in strategic communications, journalism, marketing, business). 
• Advanced writing and communications skills; writing samples will be requested. 
• Demonstrated ability and experience in leading comprehensive media relations and thought leadership strategy that has achieved measurable results. 
• Deep understanding of media relations, emerging platforms & opportunities. Open and comfortable with taking innovative approaches to communications. 
• Ability to work collaboratively across global teams; comfortable interacting with senior leaders and executives / stakeholders
• Experience in navigating digital transformation or organizational change in a company
• Thorough knowledge and experience in the development of strategic communication strategies 
• Entrepreneurial spirit with strong problem-solving and project management skills 
• Detail-oriented and highly organized – able to manage speaker logistics seamlessly and professionally 
• Outstanding editorial and storytelling skills 
• Ability to lead, mentor, inspire others 
• Ability to balance competing priorities in a fast-paced environment 
• Confidence and capability to work closely with executive leadership 
• Demonstrates grace under pressure and able to lead teams in a high-pressure, ever-changing environment.  

What we offer (All NA roles not Canada): 

• Passionate, driven people | We champion a culture of people that do extraordinary work.
• Consciously cultivated culture | We aim to embody the behaviors to build an inclusive community that is in it together, bringing both positivity and active listening into the workplace as we simultaneously strive to empower creative bravery.
• Competitive benefits | What we offer full time hires ranges from the full spectrum of group health coverage options (medical, dental, vision) to a generous 401k match (100% dollar-for-dollar match, up to 5% of salary contribution), and a variety of paid time off offerings that reflect our investment in all aspects of your overall life balance and wellness.
• Growth-minded opportunities | We aim to nurture a culture of real-time feedback, growth-oriented mindset, and plenty of training opportunities through VML and WPP, so you can continue to grow personally and professionally.

VML is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion or belief, sex, age, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, military/veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, or other protected group status. We believe in creating a dynamic work environment that values diversity and inclusion and strives to recruit a diverse slate of candidates to help us achieve that goal.