Who We Are:
At VML, we are a beacon of innovation and growth in an ever-evolving world. Our heritage is built upon a century of combined expertise, where creativity meets technology, and diverse perspectives ignite inspiration. With the merger of VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson, we have forged a new path as a growth partner that is part creative agency, part consultancy, and part technology powerhouse.
Our global family now encompasses over 30,000 employees across 150+ offices in 64 markets, each contributing to a culture that values connection, belonging, and the power of differences. Our expertise spans the entire customer journey, offering deep insights in communications, commerce, consultancy, CRM, CX, data, production, and technology. We deliver end-to-end solutions that result in revolutionary work.
We’re looking for a Financial Program Manager who is highly organized, detail-oriented, and passionate about process and strategy.
What you'll Do:
As the Program Lead Finance, you will be instrumental in bridging the gap between project execution and financial strategy. Your responsibilities will include:
Strategic Process Leadership:
- Proactively identify process gaps, inefficiencies, and areas for improvement, collaborating closely with Finance Portfolio Leads and other stakeholders to develop and implement robust solutions.
- Drive the development and standardization of reporting mechanisms to provide clear, actionable insights into portfolio performance, risks, and resource utilization.
- Collaborate extensively with Finance Portfolio Leads and other cross-functional teams to co-develop and refine project management methodologies and best practices tailored to financial initiatives.
Team Leadership & Development. Operational & continuos improvement:
- Take ownership of the resourcing strategy for the finance project management team.
- Identify, evaluate, and implement industry best practices in project and portfolio management, specifically tailored to financial operations.
- Propose efficiency improvements across various Project Operating Divisions (PODs) and Business Units, ensuring alignment with overarching business objectives.
- Drive initiatives to enhance project predictability, quality, and delivery within the finance domain.
What You'll Bring:
- [5+] years of progressive experience in project management, with a significant portion focused on financial projects, operations, or within a finance department.
- [5+] years of experience in a leadership or lead role, managing project managers or project teams.
- Proven track record of successfully defining, implementing, and optimizing project management processes.
- Strong Finance Acumen: Deep understanding of financial principles, accounting practices, financial reporting, budgeting, and financial systems (e.g., ERP, GL, financial planning tools).
- Ability to effectively communicate complex information to diverse audiences, including senior finance executives, technical teams, and business stakeholders. Proven ability to build strong relationships and influence outcomes.
- Problem-Solving & Escalation Management: Highly analytical with a strong ability to diagnose complex issues, develop strategic solutions, and manage critical escalations with a calm and decisive approach.
- Strategic Thinking: Ability to connect project-level activities to broader financial and business strategies.
- Proficiency with project management software (e.g., Jira, Monday, Microsoft Project, Smartsheet) and reporting tools.
- Nice to have:
- Bachelor's degree in Finance, Business Administration, Project Management, or a related field.
- Workday and/or SAP knowledge are a plus.
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.
VML is a WPP Agency. For more information, please visit our website, and follow VML on our social channels via Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.
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