Job Description
Position: Senior Strategist
Reports to: Group Strategy Director
OT Classification: Exempt
General Position Summary
Wieden+Kennedy believes that each team member makes a significant contribution to our success. That contribution should not be limited by the assigned responsibilities outlined in a job description. Therefore, this job description is designed to outline primary duties, qualifications and job scope but not limit the employee or the organization to just the work identified. It is our expectation that each team member will offer his/her services wherever and whenever necessary to ensure the success of our endeavors and to pursue individual career growth.
A Senior Strategist is responsible for impacting the quality of creative work in a direct and positive way by applying understanding of the consumer. Represents consumer in all aspects of client-agency interaction from brief to execution. Plays an instrumental role in client pitches, new business and preparing creative directives. Is responsible for performance reviews and the development of Junior and Mid-Level Strategists.
Major Responsibilities/Primary Functions
Leads the strategic/brand vision internally and externally
Monitors and interprets cultural and social trends relevant to client business as well as keeps abreast of industry, customer and competitor information and integrates insights into strategic branding recommendations
With the Account and Creative teams, develops clear and inspiring creative briefs and an extensive point of view for new business and current clients
Works closely with the Director of Strategy and Group Strategy Director to develop briefs, pitch new business and manage initiatives
Conducts qualitative and quantitative research via focus groups, brainstorming sessions and one-on-one interviews
Integrates (and communicates to client) knowledge with respect to media, creative and messaging effectiveness from one campaign to the next
Works with Account Services to develop proactive initiatives that help create new revenue opportunities and gain access to client-owned research
Partners with Creatives to concept, explore and push the creation of good work
Builds honest, direct relationships with colleagues and clients
Debates constructively and asks challenging questions
Qualifications, Distinguishing Characteristics and Special Requirements
Bachelor’s degree required
6+ years’ strategy experience in a creative advertising agency preferred
A proven track record of gaining trust and respect by consistently demonstrating sound critical-thinking skills and maintaining composure in stressful situations
Exceptional written and verbal communication skills with the ability to communicate with all levels of employees across many disciplines
Exceptional initiative, attention to detail and follow-through skills
After-hours work and overnight travel required