Director of Business Platforms - Corporate

Overview

WPP is the creative transformation company. We use the power of creativity to build better futures for our people, planet, clients, and communities. WPP is a world leader in marketing services, with deep AI, data and technology capabilities, global presence and unrivalled creative talent. Our clients include many of the biggest companies and advertisers in the world, including approximately 300 of the Fortune Global 500.

Our people are the key to our success. We're committed to fostering a culture of creativity, belonging and continuous learning, attracting and developing the brightest talent, and providing exciting career opportunities that help our people grow.

WPP is embarking on a major 3-year Transformation to simplify, modernise, and unify its technology platforms across the group. This change is critical to:

• Enable cost-effective transformation and operational efficiency
• Accelerate adoption of AI, data, and digital platforms
• Ensure consistent delivery of value and benefits across all agencies and markets
• Minimise disruption and maximise engagement during large-scale change

A dedicated Cluster lead is needed to orchestrate the people side of this transformation, ensuring that new ways of working are adopted, benefits are realised, and change fatigue is minimised.

• Define and execute a forward-thinking platform strategy for the Corporate functions, balancing unique business needs with broader organisational objectives.
• Collaborate closely with the Corporate CIO and other stakeholders to ensure platform initiatives align with the overall Business Platforms strategy.
• Drive operational excellence by aligning business goals, platform capabilities, team workload, and backlog prioritisation to enhance user satisfaction.
• Lead the development, enhancement, and integration of scalable, innovative business platforms, leveraging global templates and standards.
• Oversee the full product lifecycle: platform enhancements, support, upgrades, integrations, and continuous improvement for seamless user experience.
• Foster a culture of collaboration and innovation across teams to optimise platform performance and drive adoption of new technologies.
• Partner with the Enterprise Data department to implement data-driven strategies that improve platform performance, usability, and ROI.
• Manage relationships with external vendors and technology partners, ensuring alignment with strategic goals and maximising value.
• Act as the primary point of contact for stakeholders across the Corporate functions, providing guidance and leadership on platform-related matters.
• Ensure platforms comply with regulatory requirements and industry standards, implementing robust risk management and data security practices.
• Champion change management initiatives, driving adoption and managing resistance to change effectively across the Corporate functions.
• Build and lead high-performing teams, providing line management, talent development, and performance management support.

Critical Knowledge and Experience

• Extensive senior experience in a global, complex organisation and/or matrix environment
• Proven experience leading platform and ERP initiatives in large, complex organisations
• Deep knowledge of business platforms, system architecture, and integration
• Strong track record in change management and large-scale transformation
• Expertise in stakeholder management, negotiation, and consensus building
• Experience managing cross-functional, geographically distributed teams
• Excellent communication and influencing skills

Skills

• Platform Strategy & Execution
• Business Platform Architecture & Integration
• Operational Excellence & Product Lifecycle Management
• Change Management & Transformation
• Stakeholder Engagement & Consensus Building
• Vendor & Partner Management Data-Driven
• Decision Making, Communication & Influencing Skills
• Team Leadership & Talent Development

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