Sr. Executive. - Strategy & Planning at VML (Mumbai, India)Sr. Executive. - Strategy & Planning

VML is a global creative company that combines brand experience, customer experience, and commerce to create connected brands that drive growth. Guided by a Human First philosophy, VML is known for its innovative work for brands and consistently ranks among the world’s leading creative companies, including the WARC Creative 100. VML’s global network spans 55+ markets with principal offices in Buenos Aires, Kansas City, London, New York, São Paulo, Shanghai and Singapore.

VML is part of WPP, the trusted growth partner for the world's leading brands. Powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing platform WPP Open, WPP unites cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, creativity, production, enterprise solutions and expert strategic counsel.

For more information, please visit www.vml.comand follow along on  LinkedIn #WeAreVML.

Role: Executive – Strategy and Planning

Location: Mumbai

This role is perfect for someone who lives and breathes social culture, possesses an innate understanding of "what works" online, and can translate emerging trends into compelling content ideas for our diverse client portfolio. You'll be instrumental in keeping our strategies fresh, innovative, and deeply relevant.

Roles & Responsibilities:

• Trend Spotting & Application:Actively monitor social media platforms (TikTok, Instagram Reels, YouTube Shorts, X/Twitter, etc.) to identify emerging trends, viral challenges, popular sounds, memes, and content styles. Translate these insights into actionable content ideas and strategic recommendations for clients.
• Platform & Format Expertise:Maintain an expert-level understanding of new and evolving features across all major social media platforms. Advise on optimal content formats (e.g., vertical video, carousels, interactive stickers, new ad units) and best practices for maximizing reach and engagement on each channel.
• Content Ideation & Brainstorming:Proactively contribute to content strategy and campaign development by bringing fresh, creative, and on-trend ideas to the table, ensuring our clients' social presence is always cutting-edge.
• Cultural & Community Insights:Immerse yourself in specific online communities and subcultures relevant to our clients, uncovering authentic insights that can inform more resonant and engaging content strategies.
• Competitive & Inspirational Analysis:Regularly scout the social media landscape for examples of best-in-class content, successful trendjacking, and innovative campaigns from competitors and aspirational brands.
• Performance Analysis Support:Assist in analyzing social media performance data, focusing on how specific content formats, trend-driven initiatives, or platform features contributed to success (or learning opportunities).
• Cross-functional Collaboration:Work closely with creative teams, community managers, and senior strategists to ensure trend-driven insights are effectively integrated into content calendars and creative briefs.
• Presentation Support:Help prepare engaging presentations that showcase new social opportunities, trend analysis, and content recommendations for internal teams and clients.

Skills & Competencies:

• Experience:Approximately 2-3 years of experience in social media planning, content strategy, or a highly related digital marketing role, preferably within an agency setting or a fast-paced brand.
• Social Native & Trend Obsessed:A proven track record of identifying and understanding viral trends, new social media formats, and the nuances of online culture. You're likely an early adopter of new social features.
• Creative & Innovative Thinking:Ability to generate fresh, unique, and effective content ideas that align with brand objectives and leverage current social opportunities.
• Platform Fluency:Deep, hands-on knowledge of how content performs on key platforms (especially TikTok, Instagram, YouTube, X/Twitter) and a keen awareness of their ever-changing algorithms and features.
• Communication Skills:Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to articulate trend insights and content concepts clearly and persuasively.
• Proactive & Curious:A self-starter who actively seeks out new information, is always learning, and challenges the status quo.
• Tool Familiarity:Comfortable using social media platforms natively and basic familiarity with social analytics tools.
• Education:Bachelor's degree in Marketing, Communications, Digital Media, or a related field

We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we’ve adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office an average of four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.

WPP (VML) is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.

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