Assistant Commercial Finance Manager

At VML, we are a beacon of innovation and growth in an ever-evolving world. Our heritage is built upon a century of combined expertise, where creativity meets technology, and diverse perspectives ignite inspiration. With the merger of VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson, we have forged a new path as a growth partner that is part creative agency, part consultancy, and part technology powerhouse.

Our global family now encompasses over 30,000 employees across 150+ offices in 64 markets, each contributing to a culture that values connection, belonging, and the power of differences. Our expertise spans the entire customer journey, offering deep insights in communications, commerce, consultancy, CRM, CX, data, production, and technology. We deliver end-to-end solutions that result in revolutionary work.

About the Role:

The Assistant Commercial Finance Manager plays a vital role in supporting VML's financial health and strategic growth. Partnering with the Commercial Finance Manager, you will provide financial analysis, insights, and decision support to the commercial team. This includes managing budgets, developing forecasts, reviewing client contracts, analyzing pricing strategies, and identifying key performance drivers to optimize profitability. Collaboration with cross-functional teams across the agency is crucial to ensure alignment with business goals.

Key Responsibilities:

Financial Analysis:

• Conduct in-depth analysis of business performance, including sales forecasts, pricing strategies, and market trends to pinpoint key profitability drivers.
• Develop insightful financial reports and presentations to inform data-driven decision-making.
• Monitor client profitability and identify opportunities for improvement.

Budgeting and Forecasting:

• Assist in developing and managing project budgets, encompassing revenue and cost projections.
• Track budget variances and proactively communicate potential risks to stakeholders.
• Prepare financial forecasts to support strategic planning and decision-making.

Client Contract Management:

• Review and analyze client contracts, ensuring accurate pricing, terms, and conditions.
• Identify potential commercial risks within contracts and develop mitigation strategies.
• Collaborate with account teams to negotiate contract amendments as needed.

Pricing Strategy:

• Support the development and implementation of pricing strategies for new business opportunities.
• Analyze industry benchmarks and competitor pricing to inform pricing decisions.

Stakeholder Management:

• Build strong relationships with cross-functional teams (sales, account management, operations) to effectively communicate financial insights and support business objectives.
• Proactively address financial concerns and provide timely updates to key stakeholders.

Required Skills and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Finance, Accounting, or a related field.
• 2-5 years of experience in a commercial finance role within a professional services or marketing agency environment.
• Strong analytical skills and the ability to interpret complex financial data.
• Excellent communication and presentation skills, enabling clear communication of financial information to non-finance stakeholders.
• Proficiency in financial modeling and budgeting tools (e.g., Excel, budgeting software).
• Understanding of contract law and commercial terms.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively as part of a team

We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we've adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office an average of four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.

WPP (VML) is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers.

VML is a WPP Agency. For more information, please visit our website, and follow VML on our social channels via Instagram, LinkedIn, and X.

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