Director, Data Science (Marketing Analytics)

About WPP Media WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands. With exceptional talent, trusted data and intelligence, and world-class partnerships – all united by our pioneering agentic marketing platform, WPP Open – we help clients navigate change, capture opportunity, and deliver transformational growth. WPP Media is WPP's AI-driven media operating unit, bringing together media, data, and partnerships to deliver creative personalisation at scale. Connected through WPP Open and powered by Open Intelligence, clients see exactly where, how, and why their media investment is working. For more information, visit wppmedia.com . 2492 - Director, Data Science (Marketing Analytics) - UK Role Summary and Impact We are seeking an exceptional Senior Data Scientist to join our Marketing Science team, serving as both a technical leader and hands-on contributor in building advanced activation solutions that drive superior client performance. This role combines strategic leadership responsibilities with deep technical expertise in econometric modelling and predictive analytics. Responsibilities This is a dynamic and compelling role, and the successful candidate will need to demonstrate an ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. You will develop a close working relationship with various internal and external teams. The objectives of the role are varied and will adapt to the business objectives as we grow. The following areas are key to the successful management and development of the team: Drive technical excellence and innovation in marketing measurement Build and scale team capabilities that enhance expertise in advanced analytics and marketing analytics methodologies Strengthen stakeholder relationships Establish analytical standards and best practices Foster a culture of continuous learning, collaboration, and excellence within the department Responsibilities Leadership and Team Management: Lead and mentor a team of data scientists and analysts, fostering professional development and technical excellence Establish team priorities, allocate resources effectively, and ensure delivery of high-quality analytical solutions Develop and implement training programs to enhance team capabilities in advanced analytics and marketing analytics Conduct performance reviews, provide regular feedback, and support career progression planning Build a collaborative, innovation-focused team culture that encourages experimentation and learning Stakeholder Management Serve as the primary analytical consultant for senior client stakeholders and internal leadership teams Translate complex analytical insights into actionable business recommendations and strategic guidance Collaborate with client service teams to scope analytical requirements and deliver solutions that meet business objectives Present high-level insights, recommendations, and innovations to senior stakeholders Cultivate strong relationships with agencies, identifying opportunities for expanded collaboration and business growth Address escalated client concerns and ensure consistent delivery of high-quality solutions Technical Excellence & Data Science Design, build, and validate Marketing Mix Models (MMM) using advanced econometric techniques Develop predictive models for campaign performance, customer behaviour, and business outcomes Implement cutting-edge statistical approaches including Bayesian modelling, machine learning, and causal inference Create cross-channel reach and frequency measurement frameworks and attribution models Build automated reporting and monitoring systems for ongoing campaign optimization Oversee the development of innovative data models and analytical frameworks to drive marketing effectiveness Ensure the team stays current with the latest advancements in data science and machine learning relevant to marketing Collaborate with the Marketing Strategists to translate complex data insights into actionable marketing strategies Guide the development of optimisation strategies both independently and in collaboration with WPP Media EMEA team. Innovation & Methodology Development Research and implement new analytical approaches, tools, and methodologies in marketing science Develop proprietary frameworks and best practices for effectiveness measurement and optimization Lead proof-of-concept projects exploring emerging techniques in marketing analytics Establish analytical standards and quality assurance processes across the team Contribute to thought leadership through white papers, industry presentations, and case studies Skills & Experience Advanced expertise in Marketing Mix Modelling (MMM) including media saturation curves, adstock effects, and base vs. incremental decomposition Strong econometrics background with experience in time series analysis, panel data methods, and causal inference Proficiency in predictive modelling using machine learning techniques (regression, tree-based methods, neural networks) Programming exp…