Planner

Planner

The Planner is the heartbeat of our media strategy practice a strategist, operator, and problem-solver who takes full ownership of client outcomes. This role blends analytical rigor with creative judgment, translating complexity into clarity. AMS planners are not order-takers; they are decision-makers who anticipate needs, challenge assumptions, and move work forward independently while keeping others informed.

Responsibilities

Media Strategy & Planning

• Develop and deliver integrated, data-informed media plans that exceed client KPIs.
• Use multiple data sources to craft numerically sound recommendations and bring forward fresh, creative ideas in media choice and usage.
• Translate media math into stories that make sense to clients and colleagues.

Client Leadership

• Proactively identify risks, opportunities, and growth areas for clients thinking like an owner, not a vendor.
• Confidently present plans and recommendations, anticipating questions and leading conversations with clarity and conviction.
• Foster trusted client relationships by consistently demonstrating preparedness, follow-through, and independent judgment.

Optimization & Insights

• Monitor campaign performance, flag risks, and recommend optimizations to maximize outcomes.
• Provide clear POVs on what's working and what's not, and back them up with data and storytelling.
• Structure thoughtful tests that introduce clients to emerging media in the most risk-aware way.

Research & Forecasting

• Analyze demographic and consumer data to calculate reach, frequency, and projected campaign outcomes.
• Create forecasts, projections, and one-sheets that become trusted tools for client and internal decision-making.

Thought Leadership & Visibility

• Contribute to AMS's thought leadership by developing evidence-based POVs, writing content, or participating in internal knowledge-sharing.
• Share your work openly making data, frameworks, and insights accessible so others can build on them.
• Connect seemingly unrelated data points to reveal unexpected insights. Use inductive reasoning to identify patterns others miss.

Qualifications

• 45 years of experience in media planning, media results analysis, or media research in an agency setting.
• Hands-on experience in digital planning, buying, implementation, analytics, and optimization.
• Strong familiarity with media measurement across traditional and digital channels (you can calculate a GRP and a VTR).
• Proficiency with syndicated datasets (MRI, Nielsen, Resonate, Scarborough) and BI tools (Power BI, Tableau, Domo).
• Advanced Excel skills (complex formulas and data automation required; VBA preferred).
• Working knowledge of digital ad tech (trafficking, tagging, programmatic bidding, segmentation).
• Exceptional communication skills: can turn data into stories, write with clarity, and present with confidence.
• Trusted by colleagues and clients for your preparation, follow-through, and problem-solving.

Who Thrives Here

You're a planner who:

• Thinks strategically but isn't afraid to roll up your sleeves.
• Shares ideas generously and makes others better.
• Seeks feedback and uses it as fuel.
• Hears co-workers relax when they know you are owning a project
• Is endlessly curious about media, technology, and people.
• Finds energy in solving new problems and doesn't get rattled when priorities shift.

Travel

Occasional travel (up to 10%) for client meetings, pitches, and industry events. Some night and weekend work required.

Unfortunately, we are unable to sponsor or take over sponsorship of an employment Visa at this time.

The salary range for this role is $75,000 - $90,000. The successful candidate's salary will depend on the actual ranges of current employees in the subject position, market considerations, budgetary considerations, geography, as well as the candidate's skill set, level of experience, and qualifications. AMS offers a very competitive benefits package inclusive of medical coverage, dental, vision, disability, 401k, paid time off, community engagement opportunities, great colleagues, and great learning opportunities.