Head of Strategy

Benefits:	Medical Aid, Provident Fund, Group Risk Benefits
Location:	Johannesburg
Job level:	Management (Snr - Executive, 5+ yrs)
Type:	Permanent
Company:	Havas Johannesburg

The opportunity

The head of strategy is a critical role, responsible for shaping the strategic vision and direction of a leading media and creative agency operating in the dynamic African market. This role will drive insights-driven campaigns and ensure a deep understanding of the African consumer and media landscape for both the agency and its diverse clientele.
Key Responsibilities

Strategic leadership:

• Develop and articulate the agency's overall strategic vision, ensuring alignment with market dynamics and growth objectives.
• Oversee strategic planning, setting long-term goals, and ensuring effective implementation across the agency.
• Lead the development and execution of innovative marketing and advertising campaigns that resonate with African audiences.
• Innovation champion to review and lead the implementation of new interventions

Market analysis and insights:

• Conduct in-depth market research, analyze consumer trends, demographics, and the evolving media landscape across diverse African markets.
• Drive a culture of insights-driven decision making, using data analytics to inform strategic choices, creative executions, and optimize campaign performance.
• Champion the development of proprietary tools and frameworks for understanding the African consumer.

Client collaboration:

• Build strong partnerships with existing clients, understanding their business challenges and identifying strategic opportunities.
• Lead new business pitches, showcasing the agency's unique insights, strategic capabilities, and creative excellence.
• Nurture and expand client relationships through insightful thought leadership and proactive solutions.

Team leadership and development:

• Guide and mentor a team of talented strategists, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment.
• Attract, develop, and retain top strategic talent within the agency.
• Ensure clear goal setting, regular feedback, and development opportunities for team members.

Thought leadership:

• Represent the agency as a thought leader in the African media and creative industries through public speaking, publications, and industry events.
• Establish the agency as a driving force behind understanding and engaging modern African consumers.

Qualifications:

• 10+ years of progressive experience in strategic leadership roles within media, advertising, or related fields.
• Proven track record in strategy development and execution for major brands, with experience in the African market being highly advantageous.
• Deep understanding of consumer behaviour, market segmentation, and digital marketing trends across diverse African countries.
• Strong analytical skills and demonstrated ability to translate data and insights into actionable strategies.
• Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and build relationships at all levels.
• Proven ability to lead and inspire a dynamic team of strategists.

Tools:

• TGI
• BrandMapp
• Orinco
• Adintel
• GWI

Posted on 17 May 15:03, Closing date 16 Jul