About the Job
WPP Media is WPP's 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.
For more information, visit wppmedia.com.
3177 - Associate Director, Data Science and Solutions, UK
Key Responsibilities
The Analytics Associate Director, Data Science, will be a key technical leader within the dedicated Data Science team. This role is responsible for leading the delivery of advanced data science projects, translating complex analytical requirements into robust, implementable solutions, and contributing hands-on to specialised modelling efforts. Working within the wider Analytics team, the Associate Director will apply sophisticated data science techniques to address client communication challenges, enhance media effectiveness, and foster innovation. This position requires deep technical expertise, a proactive problem-solving approach, ensuring the successful execution of impactful data science initiatives.
Required Skills & Abilities
Technical Expertise & Data Science Acumen:
Advanced Data Science & Machine Learning:Proven expertise in a wide range of data science methodologies, including statistical modelling, machine learning algorithms (e.g., regression, classification, clustering, time series analysis).
Modelling Specialisation:Demonstrable hands-on experience in specific techniques relevant to media and marketing, such as propensity modelling, attribution modelling, creative analytics, and test & learn methodologies.
Technical Proficiency:Expert-level proficiency in Python. Experience with SQL for data extraction and manipulation is essential. Familiarity with Git, GCP, Docker, Plumber, FastAPI, Shiny, and Django is highly desirable.
Data Engineering & Architecture Understanding:Solid understanding of data warehousing concepts, ETL processes, and cloud platforms (e.g., GCP, AWS, Azure) and their data services.
Tool & Product Development:Hands-on experience in developing and maintaining analytical tools, dashboards, and automated solutions. Familiarity with MLOps principles and practices for productising data science models.
AI & Generative AI:Proven ability to identify and implement AI-driven solutions to enhance analytical capabilities and efficiency.
Data Visualisation & UI:Proven ability to visualise data in a user-friendly manner and understand the needs.
Leadership & Management Capabilities:
Substantial experience in data science roles, ideally within the media industry, with proven experience in technical leadership and project management
Proven ability to manage complex data science projects from conception to delivery, ensuring adherence to timelines and budget.
Exceptional ability to communicate complex technical concepts to non-technical stakeholders, translate business requirements into technical specifications, and manage expectations effectively.
Domain Knowledge & Business Acumen:
Deep understanding of the media landscape, advertising ecosystems, and key performance indicators (KPIs) relevant to media effectiveness, measurement, and optimisation.
Awareness of the commercial implications of analytical work and a track record of contributing to value through data science initiatives.
Familiarity with data governance, privacy regulations (e.g., GDPR), and ethical considerations relevant to public sector data usage in the UK.
Personal Attributes:
A highly curious and innovative mindset, constantly seeking new technologies and methodologies to solve complex problems.
Exceptional analytical and problem-solving skills, with a methodical approach to tackling challenges.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present findings clearly and persuasively.
Strong collaborative spirit, capable of working effectively with cross-functional teams and across the wider organisation.
