Digital Advertising Manager - Programmatic

About the role

This role advances programmatic media activities and their day-to-day execution for clients. The position operates within WPP Media, the AI-driven media operating unit, using data and partnerships to enable personalized media at scale. Media investment is clarified through Open Intelligence, and the work supports client growth within an international setup. You will own the operational execution and optimization of programmatic campaigns end to end. A core part of the role is turning strategic media goals into concrete, data-backed actions. You will act as a key liaison between specialist teams and external partners in a global environment. Success in this position is defined by your ability to manage complex workflows with clarity and precision. You will continuously refine processes to strengthen the reliability and performance of programmatic execution.

Key facts

What you'll do

Ongoing campaign monitoring in DSPs maintains clean setups and continuous optimization across workflows.

Existing best practices are implemented and evolved with the team to strengthen programmatic execution.

Programmatic media buying KPIs are managed to reliably meet agreed performance goals.

Specialist teams and external partners are collaborated with in an international environment to align strategies and execution.

Clear data preparation in tools such as Excel and PowerPoint explains complex topics understandably.

Proficiency in German and English is required for communication and stakeholder interaction.

You will verify inventory and audience quality using appropriate technologies to safeguard campaign integrity.

Performance insights from media analysis are translated into concrete optimization actions for campaigns.

You will manage media plans and adjust tactics in response to real-time data and market changes.

Staying current with rapid industry changes is essential to remain effective in this role.

Cross-functional collaboration is common in digital advertising environments and supports integrated solutions.

You will document processes and decisions to ensure transparency and repeatability in media operations.

Regular communication with internal teams keeps everyone aligned on priorities and performance.

The role requires structured thinking, clear communication, and consistent follow-through on commitments.

You contribute to a culture of ownership by taking notes, keeping agreements, and making work easy for others to review.

Requirements

A bachelor's degree in marketing, media science, or a related field is expected.

More than one or two years of experience in online marketing is required.

The digital media landscape (DSPs, data, inventory, ad and audience verification technologies) is demonstrated through prior practical application.

A strong desire to stay current with programmatic methods is essential to remain up to date in the field.

Clear data preparation in tools such as Excel and PowerPoint explains complex topics understandably.

Proficiency in German and English is required for communication and stakeholder interaction.

You are comfortable working in a structured, international team environment.

You are able to manage multiple priorities and deadlines while maintaining attention to detail.

Practical notes

Flexible working hours and remote work help shape your daily routine, with compensatory time available for extra hours.

You receive 30 days of vacation plus an additional flexible day, with December 24 and 31 also off.

Health benefits, attractive pension provisions, and Mental Health Awareness Days support your wellbeing.

Ongoing development is supported through varied training and internal career programs across the WPP network.

Events, employee discounts, and benefits such as Job Ticket, Wellhub, or the Job Bike are available.

Diversity and equal opportunity are prioritized to ensure an inclusive environment for all.

Typical interview steps

Hiring processes usually combine a screening conversation with one or more interview rounds. Candidates can expect questions about their experience, a scenario or case, and a chance to ask their own questions. Preparation and specific examples from past work carry the most weight. Whatever the role, preparation is visible. Reviewing the company's product, the job description, and your own past work before the conversation is the strongest step.

Career growth

Careers in this field grow through a mix of experience, responsibility, and demonstrated results. Early years build skills; later years build ownership. Many professionals switch focus areas or companies to keep growing. Growth in any career comes from scope, results, and reputation. Take on work that is slightly uncomfortable, and make sure others can see the outcomes.