Media Director

Company Description

Publicis Groupe is not just a company you work for; it’s a platform for you to take your talent to the world. If you want to help change the world, ideas alone are not enough. Real impact can only come from having meaningful access to a world of knowledge, people, and resources. At Publicis Groupe, you are connected to our global network, intelligence, tools, clients, brands and 90,000+ brilliant minds with expertise in data, technology, media, strategy, creativity, and business transformation, all literally at your fingertips. 

Publicis Groupe is the second-largest communications group in the world. Founded in Paris in 1926, we are present in more than 100 countries as leaders in marketing, communication, and digital business transformation. 

Overview

The Client Lead - Microsoft is a new and key role within Publicis Media Japan. The role has been created due to the win of the Microsoft business in Japan and will be responsible for the day to day management of the account. This leadership position drives growth and excellence in Japan, fosters a culture of innovation, and ensures alignment with Publicis Media’s global vision and objectives. 

The Client Lead is also responsible for driving the overall strategy, planning work, implementation and reporting for the client. They will ensure best in class media product, that make sure they are solving their clients business needs while delivering on the wider commercial targets.  

Responsibilities

Key Accountability: 

• Strategic Leadership: Define and implement the strategic direction for the client, ensuring alignment with global objectives and addressing local market dynamics.  

• Client Relationships: Build and nurture senior-level relationships with key clients, ensuring that their business objectives are met and exceeded.  

• Solutions: Accountable for building and scaling the team’s offering across media, content, operations and analytics.  

• Team Development & Culture: Lead, mentor, and grow the team, promoting a culture of excellence, collaboration, and continuous learning. 

• Operational Excellence: Ensure that the markets deliver high-quality services consistently across the region. 

• Financial Management: Ensure revenue targets are met, that invoicing and POs are managed by the team properly and general financial accuracy for the team. 

• Business Development: Where needed drive new business efforts, from identifying opportunities to leading pitches and onboarding new clients. 

• Innovation & Thought Leadership: Champion the adoption of cutting-edge digital strategies, tools, and technologies. 

• Collaboration: Collaborate closely with the region, specialized teams and other divisions within the Groupe to deliver integrated solutions to clients. 

Key OKRs 

• Innovate and scale a market leading team focusing on excellent media planning work and delivery.  

• Ensure high scores on client satisfaction surveys and internal surveys 

• Foster team growth and development by attracting key talents and nurturing existing ones 

• Deliver on key buying / media pricing metrics, service metrics to ensure any performance incentives are delivered. 

The Criteria 

• At least 10+ years of experience in running a client team and having senior client relationship ownership, with a proven track record of running a regional or global business 

• Strong understanding of the media industry.  

• Strategic thinker, can create a storyline that compels the prospect to work with the agency brand in question. 

• Extreme time management & organization, can manage multiple complex activities at once 

• Can thrive during peak periods of deadline-oriented activity with professionalism and composure. 

Qualifications

• Demonstrates AI fluency, including the ability to leverage AI tools to enhance work quality and productivity, critically evaluate outputs, and apply ethical and responsible judgment in their use.
• • Expansive Network of industry leaders and top tier client stakeholder in Japan 
  • Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business, or a related field. 
  • Experience working with globally distributed cross-functional teams. 
  • 15+ years in industry experience.  The variance will depend on practical skills obtained, the amount of experience in a mature market and education qualifications.  
  • Deep understanding of the entire Japanese media ecosystem, with a focus on IT media 
  • Understanding of data based marketing and the changes that has on the media planning process 
  • Ability to present to all levels clients as well as global and regional clients and internal stakeholders 
  • The ideal candidate will be able to inspire the team and clients with their knowledge and passion for media 
  • Must be fluent in Japanese and be able to speak English at a presentation and business level 

Additional Information

What Publicis Groupe can offer you 

Be a part of the Publicis Groupe family - one of the world’s most progressive and dynamic modern communications businesses enjoying all the perks that come with our network offering:  

• A hybrid, flexible work style, with three days per week spent collaborating face-to-face with clients and colleagues.  

• Extensive Learning & Development opportunities, including access to over 15,000 programs through our online platform, Marcel Classes.  

• The Work Your World program offers flexibility to work from anywhere globally for up to six weeks per year.  

• A culture of open feedback and continuous growth, supported by structured Career Conversations and a 360° Feedback framework.  

• Access to a comprehensive rewards offering, Employee Assistance Program (EAP), and well-being support.  

• Access to Marcel, our global AI platform, connecting employees with opportunities for collaboration and career development across our network.  

• And many more benefits including a wide range of leave policies, employee communities and clubs. 

Publicis Groupe believes that our people are our greatest asset. Our people are selected for their skill sets, ethics, and professional qualities, without any exclusion, preferential treatment, or discrimination. We are proud to be an equal opportunity employer and do not discriminate based on age, gender, gender identity, race, sexual orientation, nationality, religion, disability, or any other difference. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals and will provide appropriate assistance for candidates who may need other considerations or adjustments throughout the recruitment process upon request.