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VP, Paid Search, UK

WPP MediaLondon, United KingdomMedia Management & Delivery
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Salary
Not listed
Job type
Full-time
Posted
21 Sept 2026
Status
Open · checked 7d ago

About this role

Role Overview

The VP, Paid Search at WPP Media in London is a senior leadership position responsible for guiding a high-performing team and defining the strategic direction of the channel across a key client portfolio. This role suits an ambitious, commercially minded expert who wants to shape the future of modern search within a newly formed activation hub. WPP Media is WPP's AI-driven media operating unit, bringing together media, data, and partnerships to deliver creative personalization at scale.

Key Responsibilities

Lead, motivate, and develop a high-performing Paid Search team while line-managing Directors and Associate Directors to ensure continuous improvement and clear development plans.
Define and own the strategic vision for Paid Search across the relevant client portfolio, aligning the approach with evolving consumer and platform behaviours.
Champion the use of AI, automation, and technology-enabled solutions to create competitive advantages and unlock new growth opportunities.
Partner closely with SEO, Content, Digital PR, Analytics, Commerce, and Audience teams to build integrated search solutions that maximise visibility and performance.
Act as a senior strategic advisor to client stakeholders, translating complex business challenges into progressive, data-led Paid Search strategies.
Drive commercial growth, income expansion, accurate forecasting, and effective resource management across the department.
Represent WPP Media at industry events, develop thought leadership, and contribute to new business pitches and award entries.

Requirements

Expert-level Paid Search knowledge across Google, Microsoft, and broader search ecosystems, including retail media, marketplaces, and AI-led discovery.
Proven ability to lead large teams, set rigorous delivery standards, manage performance, coach senior talent, and build a culture of excellence.
Strong commercial judgement and experience translating client business contexts into ambitious Paid Search strategies.
Excellent client leadership skills with the ability to build compelling narratives connecting platform innovation, automation, data, and business outcomes.
Understanding of overlaps between Paid Search, Organic Search, Content, Digital PR, and AI search environments.

Skills and Tools

Google platforms and advertising ecosystems
Microsoft search environments
Retail media networks and search marketplaces
AI-driven search experiences and automation tools
Total Search and Integrated Search frameworks
Analytics, attribution, and measurement solutions

About the Company

WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands. Through exceptional talent, trusted data, intelligence, and world-class partnerships united by the pioneering agentic marketing platform, WPP Open, the company helps clients navigate change and deliver transformational growth. WPP Media acts as the AI-driven media operating unit, connecting media, data, and partnerships to deliver creative personalisation at scale.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should visit the official WPP Media careers page to submit an application and learn more about joining the team in London.

Questions candidates ask

What is the primary focus of the VP, Paid Search role?

The role focuses on leading a high-performing Paid Search team, shaping strategic direction, driving channel innovation, and delivering commercial growth for a defined client portfolio within the UK business.

Where is this job located?

This position is located in London, United Kingdom.

What team will this role be a part of?

The position is part of the newly formed Outcomes Activation & Delivery hub within WPP Media.

What level of experience is required with search platforms?

Candidates must possess expert-level Paid Search knowledge across Google, Microsoft, and broader search ecosystems, including emerging search environments, retail media, and AI-led discovery.

Does the role involve team management?

Yes, the VP will line-manage Directors and Associate Directors, identify talent gaps, recruit, mentor, and foster a culture of accountability and continuous improvement.

Ready to apply?

The application is on the official WPP Media careers page.

Apply on company site