Communications Design Manager

The Design Project; Greater London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - GBP 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading media agency in London is on the lookout for a Communications Design Manager to drive targeted communications strategies for key clients. In this role, you will develop comprehensive plans aligned with business goals, manage client relationships, and oversee financial stewardship for client accounts. The ideal candidate has 2-5 years of experience in media planning and is adept at project management and data analysis. This position offers a dynamic work environment with a focus on client success and integrated campaign execution.

Benefits

25 days of annual leave

Free breakfast and lunch

Employee discounts

Wellbeing programs

Qualifications

• 2-5 years in an integrated planning role within a media agency.
• Proven experience in managing client relationships.
• Experience in financial stewardship and budget management.

Responsibilities

• Develop data-driven communications plans that align with client goals.
• Manage client proposal processes ensuring actionable recommendations.
• Ensure integration between media and creative efforts.

Skills

Integrated Planning

Client Management

Project Management

Data Analysis

Financial Acumen

Education

Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, Business Administration

Tools

Microsoft Office Suite

Project Management Software

Media Planning Software

Job description

Job Title: Communications Design ManagerCompany: IPG MediabrandsLocation: London, England, United KingdomJob Type: Full-TimeCategory: Marketing Operations / GTM StrategyDate Posted: 2026-01-15T09:36:05Experience Level: Mid-Level (2-5 years)Remote Status: On-site

• Drive the strategic application of consumer, cultural, media, and market intelligence to develop impactful communications ecosystems for key clients.
• Act as the primary day-to-day liaison between the client and the integrated internal team, ensuring seamless communication and project execution.
• Manage the end-to-end production and delivery of accurate, insightful planning inputs that directly support client KPIs and business objectives.
• Oversee financial stewardship for client accounts, including PO processes, budget management, and billing accuracy to ensure profitable client relationships.
• Foster a collaborative environment within the 'Team UTD' (an integrated media and creative unit) to ensure seamless alignment across Owned, Earned, Shared, and Paid channels.

📝 Enhancement Note: While the title is "Communications Design Manager," the responsibilities and context strongly indicate a role within the broader GTM and Marketing Operations sphere, focusing on strategic planning, data utilization, and client management within a media agency setting. The emphasis on "communications ecosystem," "planning inputs," and "KPIs" points to a strategic operations function rather than a pure creative design role. The 'Team UTD' structure suggests a focus on integrated campaign execution and performance measurement.

📈 Primary Responsibilities

• Develop and deliver accurate, data-driven communications plans that align with client business goals and drive growth.
• Conduct regular trend identification, cultural analysis, and competitive landscape assessments to inform strategic recommendations.
• Manage the client proposal process from initiation to delivery, ensuring all recommendations are well-supported and actionable.
• Oversee the financial stewardship of client accounts, including purchase order (PO) management, media budget tracking, client billing, and resolution of billing discrepancies.
• Coordinate and collaborate with internal teams (Strategy, Design, Partnerships, Investment) to ensure the timely and accurate development of media plans and communication strategies.
• Serve as the primary day-to-day contact for the client, managing requests, providing updates, and building strong working relationships.
• Ensure seamless integration between media and creative efforts by working closely with cross-functional teams within the 'Team UTD' model.
• Support Associate Directors and Group Directors in managing planning across various disciplines to guarantee smooth, accurate, and deadline-driven operations.
• Contribute to the profitability of primary accounts by ensuring efficient resource allocation and effective campaign execution.
• Participate in new business pitches and contribute to agency growth initiatives as required.
• Deploy Initiative's proprietary design process, tools, and techniques, adapting them to specific client scenarios for optimal outcomes.
• Support the development of Request for Proposals (RFPs) and partner selection processes in collaboration with Partnership colleagues.

📝 Enhancement Note: The responsibilities clearly outline a role focused on strategic planning, project management, financial oversight, and client relationship management within a media planning context. The emphasis on "communications design process," "OESP plan" (Owned, Earned, Shared, Paid), and "culturally resonant solutions" highlights the strategic GTM and operations aspect of this role.

🎓 Skills & Qualifications

Education:

• Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, Business Administration, or a related field is preferred.
• Equivalent practical experience in a relevant media or marketing role will also be considered.

Experience:

• 2-5 years of experience in an integrated planning role within a media agency, publisher/vendor, or a communications discipline (e.g., digital marketing, content strategy).
• Demonstrated experience in managing client relationships and day-to-day requests.
• Proven track record in project management, including managing timelines and deliverables.
• Experience in financial stewardship, including budget management and PO processes, is highly desirable.
• Experience in managing or developing junior team members is a plus.

Required Skills:

• Integrated Planning: Ability to develop comprehensive communication plans that synergize various channels (Owned, Earned, Shared, Paid).
• Media Planning Expertise: Solid understanding of media principles, channels, and effectiveness measurement.
• Project Management: Strong organizational and time-management skills to handle multiple projects and meet tight deadlines under pressure.
• Client Management: Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to effectively manage client expectations and build strong relationships.
• Data Analysis & Insights: Ability to synthesize consumer, cultural, media, and market data into actionable insights and cohesive strategic narratives.
• Financial Acumen: Understanding of financial stewardship, including budget management, PO processes, and billing.
• Microsoft Office Proficiency: Advanced skills in Word, Excel, and PowerPoint for reporting, analysis, and presentations.

Preferred Skills:

• Trend Identification & Cultural Analysis: Aptitude for identifying emerging trends and understanding cultural nuances to inform strategy.
• Presentation Skills: Polished verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and persuasively.
• Team Leadership & Delegation: Experience in managing and developing staff, with the ability to delegate tasks effectively.
• Problem-Solving: Proven ability to identify issues, analyze root causes, and develop effective solutions.
• RFP Process Management: Experience participating in and managing the RFP process for media planning.
• Digital & Content Strategy: Familiarity with digital marketing channels and content creation strategies.

📝 Enhancement Note: The required skills align with a mid-level operations or strategy role, emphasizing analytical capabilities, client-facing skills, and project execution. The preferred skills indicate a desire for leadership potential and strategic thinking.

• Integrated Campaign Case Studies: Showcase examples of integrated communication campaigns managed, detailing strategy, execution across OESP channels, and measurable outcomes.
• Data Analysis & Insights Examples: Present instances where consumer, cultural, media, or market intelligence was used to drive strategic recommendations or improve campaign performance.
• Project Management Artifacts: Include examples of project plans, timelines, or workflow diagrams demonstrating effective management of complex projects and deadlines.
• Financial Stewardship Documentation: If possible, provide anonymized examples or descriptions of how budgets were managed, POs were processed, or billing discrepancies were resolved.
• Client Recommendation Decks: Samples of client-facing presentations that outline strategic proposals, insights, or performance reviews.

Process Documentation:

• Demonstrate understanding of the Initiative design process and how it's applied to create communication strategies.
• Showcase experience in adapting tools and techniques for specific client scenarios and objectives.
• Ability to articulate how data is synthesized and translated into cohesive communication plans.

📝 Enhancement Note: For a role like this, a portfolio is crucial for demonstrating practical application of skills. The emphasis should be on strategic thinking, data utilization, and execution management rather than purely creative output. Demonstrating process adherence and improvement is key.

Salary Range:

• Based on industry benchmarks for a Communications Design Manager with 2-5 years of experience in London, the estimated salary range is £40,000 - £60,000 per annum. This range can vary based on the candidate's specific experience, skills, and performance during the interview process.
• Generous Leave: 25 days of annual leave (Flexi-leave), office closure between Christmas & New Year.
• On-site Amenities: Free breakfast and free lunch provided daily.
• Work Schedule Flexibility: Early finish Fridays, Core Hours (Mon-Thurs) with flexible start/finish times.
• Employee Discounts: Access to retail discounts and other employee benefit schemes.
• Transportation: Interest-free season ticket loan, Electric vehicle salary sacrifice car scheme.
• Wellbeing Support: Comprehensive wellbeing program including Headspace access, flu jabs, Employee Assistance Programme, and free eye tests.
• Financial & Insurance: Group Income Protection, Life Assurance, Private Medical Insurance or Health Cash Plan (level dependent), Group Personal Pension Plan with matched contributions (3-6%), Independent mortgage advice, Financial education.
• Family Support: Generous Parental Leave & Pay.
• Volunteering: Paid time off for volunteering activities.
• Flexible Benefits: A wide array of flexible benefits including Dental, Travel insurance, Cycle to Work scheme, Gym Discounts, and more.

Working Hours:

• Standard full-time hours are approximately 40 hours per week. The role incorporates flexible working arrangements within core hours, including early finish Fridays, allowing for a good work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: Salary estimation is based on typical mid-level roles in London's media/marketing sector. The extensive list of benefits provides a strong indication of IPG Mediabrands' commitment to employee well-being and professional support.

Industry: Advertising & Media Services / Marketing CommunicationsCompany Size: Over 6,000 employees globally, operating in 90+ markets. This indicates a large, established organization with significant global reach and resources.Founded: IPG Mediabrands is part of the Interpublic Group of Companies (IPG), a major global advertising and marketing services company. While the specific founding date of Mediabrands is not provided, its parent company has a long history, suggesting a stable and experienced corporate environment.

Team Structure:

• 'Team UTD': A newly formed, fully integrated media and creative team dedicated to the NatWest client. This agile, fast-paced structure emphasizes cross-functional collaboration.
• Reporting: The role reports to an Associate Director and supports a Group Director, indicating a clear hierarchy within the team structure.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: The role requires close collaboration with creative teams, experience teams, design teams, investment teams, and partnership leads, highlighting a holistic approach to campaign development.

Methodology:

• Integrated Communications Planning: Focus on orchestrating the entire consumer experience by balancing what unites people (Fame) and what makes them different (Flow).
• Data-Driven Strategy: Emphasis on leveraging consumer, cultural, media, and market intelligence for impactful communications.
• Agile & Fast-Paced: The 'Team UTD' approach suggests a dynamic work environment focused on rapid execution and adaptation.
• Media Responsibility: Commitment to diversity, brand safety, and sustainability in media planning.

📝 Enhancement Note: The company culture is positioned as inclusive, diverse, and focused on driving business growth through innovative media strategies. The specific 'Team UTD' for NatWest suggests a client-centric, integrated operational model.

Operations Career Level: Mid-Level Managerial. This role sits between junior planning roles and senior leadership, requiring a blend of execution, client management, and nascent leadership skills. It's a crucial stepping stone for developing expertise in integrated communications strategy and operations.

Reporting Structure: Reports to an Associate Director and works closely with a Group Director. This provides mentorship and guidance from experienced leaders while offering autonomy in day-to-day client interactions and project management.

Operations Impact: role directly impacts client success by ensuring communications plans are strategically sound, data-informed, and flawlessly executed. Success is measured by client KPIs, business results, and financial stewardship, demonstrating a direct link between the operations function and tangible business outcomes. The role contributes to building "Fame" and "Flow" for brands through effective media orchestration.

• Strategic Development: Opportunity to deepen expertise in integrated planning, consumer insights, and communications design within a fast-paced, innovative agency model.
• Leadership Experience: Gain experience in managing junior talent (support design talent) and leading client-facing projects, paving the way for future directorial roles.
• Cross-Disciplinary Learning: Exposure to creative, experience, and partnership teams provides a holistic understanding of the entire communications ecosystem.
• Career Progression: Potential to advance to Associate Director, Group Director, or specialized roles within IPG Mediabrands' global network.
• Industry Specialization: Opportunity to become an authority on the NatWest business and the agency's unique operating model.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role is positioned as a significant growth opportunity for individuals looking to advance their careers in strategic marketing operations and media planning, offering a clear path for development within a large, reputable agency network.

Office Type: The description implies a collaborative office environment, particularly with the mention of 'Team UTD' and integrated teams. The provision of free breakfast and lunch suggests an office culture that encourages employees to spend time on-site and fosters community.

Office Location(s): London, England, United Kingdom. This is a major global hub for advertising and media, offering access to a vibrant industry ecosystem.

Workspace Context:

• Collaborative Hub: The 'Team UTD' model emphasizes seamless integration and collaboration, suggesting an open and dynamic workspace designed for teamwork.
• Integrated Resources: Access to various internal disciplines (creative, experience, design, investment, partnerships) within the agency, facilitating holistic campaign development.
• Client-Centric Focus: The role is deeply embedded within the client's business, requiring constant interaction with both internal teams and the client's representatives.
• Agile Operations: The fast-paced nature of the team requires efficient workflows and readily available tools for quick decision-making and execution.

Work Schedule: The role adheres to a standard full-time schedule (approx. 40 hours) but offers flexibility with core hours, early finishes on Fridays, and potentially flexible start/finish times, promoting a healthy work-life balance.

📝 Enhancement Note: The work environment is characterized by collaboration, integration, and a client-focused approach, supported by flexible working policies and on-site perks designed to foster productivity and employee engagement.

Interview Process:

• Initial Screening: HR or recruiter call to assess basic qualifications, experience, and cultural fit.
• Hiring Manager Interview: Discussion with the Associate Director or Group Director focusing on practical experience, strategic thinking, and understanding of integrated planning. Expect questions related to client management, project execution, and handling challenges.
• Team/Cross-functional Interview: Opportunity to meet potential colleagues from different disciplines (e.g., creative, strategy, partnerships) to assess collaboration style and team fit.
• Case Study/Presentation: Candidates may be asked to prepare a presentation on a past integrated campaign or a hypothetical scenario, demonstrating their strategic approach, data interpretation, and communication skills.
• Final Interview: Potentially with a senior leader to discuss career aspirations and overall fit within the agency's vision.
• Focus on Integrated Campaigns: Showcase 1-2 strong examples of integrated campaigns where you played a significant role in planning and execution across multiple channels (OESP).
• Highlight Strategic Thinking: For each case study, clearly articulate the client's business challenge, your strategic approach, the insights that drove it, and how you translated these into a actionable communications plan.
• Quantify Impact: Whenever possible, use specific metrics and KPIs to demonstrate the success of your campaigns (e.g., growth in brand awareness, engagement rates, conversion improvements, ROI).
• Showcase Data Utilization: Explain how you used consumer, cultural, media, or market intelligence to shape the strategy and recommendations.
• Demonstrate Process Management: Briefly touch upon how you managed timelines, budgets, and cross-functional collaboration to ensure successful delivery.
• Conciseness is Key: Prepare a concise presentation (e.g., 10-15 slides) that clearly communicates your expertise and impact. Be ready to discuss each element in detail.
• Understand "Team UTD" and OESP: Familiarize yourself with the concept of integrated teams and the Owned, Earned, Shared, Paid media model.
• Research NatWest: Understand the client's business, their market position, and recent marketing activities.
• Prepare for Behavioral Questions: Anticipate questions about managing difficult clients, handling tight deadlines, resolving team conflicts, and demonstrating leadership.
• Practice Presenting Data: Be ready to discuss how you interpret data and translate it into strategic recommendations.

📝 Enhancement Note: The interview process likely involves assessing strategic thinking, project management capabilities, client-facing skills, and collaborative potential. A strong portfolio that demonstrates integrated campaign success and data-driven strategy is essential.

Primary Tools:

• Microsoft Office Suite: Essential for daily operations, reporting, and presentations (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Project Management Software: Likely utilized for task tracking, timeline management, and team coordination (e.g., Asana, Trello, Monday.com, or internal agency tools).
• Media Planning Software: Specific platforms used for audience analysis, media buying, and campaign planning (e.g., Nielsen, Comscore, Kantar, or proprietary agency tools).

Analytics & Reporting:

• Data Visualization Tools: For presenting insights and performance metrics (e.g., Tableau, Power BI, Google Data Studio).
• Analytics Platforms: Tools for tracking campaign performance across digital channels (e.g., Google Analytics, Adobe Analytics).
• Market Intelligence Platforms: Databases and tools for consumer, cultural, and market trend analysis.

CRM & Automation:

• While not explicitly mentioned, familiarity with CRM systems (e.g., Salesforce) and marketing automation platforms could be beneficial for understanding client data and campaign integration.

📝 Enhancement Note: Proficiency in standard office productivity tools and project management software is a baseline requirement. Experience with media planning and analytics platforms, along with a demonstrated ability to synthesize data from various sources, will be highly valued.

Operations Values:

• Collaboration & Integration: A strong emphasis on working seamlessly across different disciplines (media, creative, strategy, partnerships) to deliver unified client solutions.
• Data-Driven Decision Making: Utilizing consumer, cultural, media, and market intelligence as the foundation for all strategic planning and execution.
• Client Focus & Business Growth: A commitment to understanding client businesses deeply and driving measurable growth through effective communications strategies.
• Agility & Adaptability: Operating in a fast-paced environment that requires quick thinking, flexibility, and the ability to adapt to changing client needs and market dynamics.
• Diversity & Inclusion: IPG Mediabrands champions an inclusive culture where all employees feel seen, heard, and valued, reflecting a commitment to diverse perspectives in their work and workforce.
• Integrated Teamwork: The 'Team UTD' model is built on deep collaboration, breaking down traditional silos between media and creative.
• Cross-Functional Partnerships: Active engagement with various internal departments to ensure holistic campaign development and execution.
• Client-Centric Communication: Maintaining open and consistent communication channels with the client to manage expectations and build strong partnerships.
• Feedback & Continuous Improvement: A culture that likely encourages constructive feedback to refine processes and improve campaign outcomes.

📝 Enhancement Note: The team culture values collaboration, data-informed strategies, client success, and inclusivity. Candidates should demonstrate an ability to thrive in a dynamic, integrated, and client-focused environment.

• Navigating Integrated Models: Adapting to and effectively contributing within a newly formed, fully integrated team ('Team UTD') requires strong communication and collaboration skills to bridge potential gaps between disciplines.
• Balancing Multiple Stakeholders: Managing day-to-day requests from the client while coordinating with various internal teams (Strategy, Design, Investment) requires exceptional organizational and prioritization skills.
• Data Synthesis & Storytelling: Effectively translating complex consumer, cultural, and market data into a cohesive, compelling narrative that drives strategic action.
• Fast-Paced Environment: The agile nature of the team demands quick turnaround times and the ability to perform under pressure to meet tight deadlines.
• Financial Stewardship Accuracy: Ensuring meticulous management of client budgets and billing to maintain profitability and client trust.
• Deep Dive into Integrated Communications: Gain hands‑on experience in a pioneering integrated media and creative model, understanding the interplay of OESP channels.
• Client Business Acumen: Develop a comprehensive understanding of the NatWest business, its market challenges and strategic objectives.
• Leadership Skills Development: Opportunities to manage junior staff and lead client‑facing projects, honing leadership and delegation abilities.
• Industry Trends & Insights: Continuous learning through exposure to diverse data sources and strategic planning methodologies.
• Professional Development: Access to IPG Mediabrands' extensive benefits package, which includes opportunities for training, wellbeing support, and career advancement.

📝 Enhancement Note: This role presents challenges that are also significant growth opportunities, particularly in mastering integrated campaign strategy and operations within an innovative agency structure.

Strategy Questions:

• "Describe a time you used consumer or market data to influence a media plan or communication strategy. What was the outcome?" (Focus on data synthesis, strategic application, and measurable results.)
• "How do you approach managing a complex project with multiple stakeholders and tight deadlines? Walk us through your process." (Highlight project management methodology, prioritization, and communication strategies.)
• "Imagine a client is questioning the ROI of a proposed media spend. How would you justify the investment and demonstrate potential business impact?" (Emphasize financial stewardship, data-backed recommendations, and understanding of client KPIs.)
• "What does an integrated communications ecosystem mean to you, and how would you ensure media and creative efforts are tightly aligned within 'Team UTD'?" (Demonstrate understanding of OESP, collaboration, and holistic campaign thinking.)

Company & Culture Questions:

• "Based on your understanding, what are the key values of IPG Mediabrands and how do they align with your professional approach?" (Research company values like diversity, inclusion, and innovation.)
• "Describe your experience working in a fast-paced, agile team environment. How do you adapt to change?" (Share examples of resilience, quick thinking, and effective collaboration.)
• "How do you ensure effective communication with both clients and internal teams, especially when dealing with differing priorities or perspectives?" (Focus on active listening, transparency, and conflict resolution.)
• Structure Your Narrative: For each case study, follow a clear story arc: Client Challenge -> Your Strategy/Insights -> Execution Details -> Measurable Results.
• Quantify Everything Possible: Use numbers and data points to illustrate impact. Don't just say "increased engagement"; state "increased engagement by 25%."
• Emphasize Your Role: Clearly articulate your specific contributions and responsibilities within the project.
• Showcase Adaptability: Highlight instances where you had to adapt plans or strategies based on new information or changing circumstances.
• Be Prepared for Deep Dives: Know your projects inside and out. Be ready to answer detailed questions about your decision-making process, the tools you used, and the challenges you overcame.

📝 Enhancement Note: Preparation should focus on demonstrating strategic thinking, data literacy, project management prowess, and strong client/team collaboration skills, supported by concrete examples from past work.

To apply for this Communications Design Manager position:

• Submit your application through the provided link on the greenhouse.io platform.
• Tailor Your Resume: Highlight experience in integrated planning, media planning, client management, project management, and financial stewardship, using keywords from the job description. Quantify achievements wherever possible.
• Prepare Your Portfolio: Curate 2-3 key case studies that best demonstrate your integrated campaign experience, data utilization, strategic thinking, and successful project execution. Ensure they are concise, visually appealing, and highlight measurable outcomes.
• Research IPG Mediabrands: Understand their mission, values, client work, and the "Team UTD" concept. Familiarize yourself with their approach to integrated communications and media responsibility.
• Practice Your Narrative: Be ready to articulate your experience using the STAR method (Situation, Task, Action, Result) and practice presenting your portfolio with confidence, focusing on your strategic contributions and the impact of your work.

⚠️ Important Notice: This enhanced job description includes AI-generated insights and operations industry-standard assumptions. All details should be verified directly with the hiring organization before making application decisions.

Application Requirements

Candidates should have experience in integrated planning within media or communications disciplines and