Business Director, Innovation (AI)

Location: London, United Kingdom; hybrid, with teams in the office around four days a week

Company

hirify.global is WPP's AI-driven media operating unit, combining media, data, partnerships, and the WPP Open platform to deliver personalized experiences and measurable growth.

What you will do

• Develop the UK Government innovation agenda for the WPP 650 account and embed innovation into integrated communications planning.
• Design strategic methodologies and solution frameworks for public-sector challenges, including applied AI, conversational interfaces, gaming, and immersive formats.
• Translate policy challenges, cultural insights, and technology trends into accessible, multi-channel citizen experiences and campaigns.
• Operationalize innovation pilots from briefing through implementation, measurement, and scaling in collaboration with Data, Tech & Analytics teams.
• Lead client presentations, strategic reviews, workshops, and consultative work with senior government and agency stakeholders.
• Manage and mentor one Account Manager while developing capability programs for the wider planning team.

Requirements

• Strategy, creative, or technology-driven planning experience in a leading media agency, digital shop, or innovation consultancy.
• Strong understanding of digital media, experience design, emerging technologies, and analytical strategy development.
• Proven ability to turn cultural insights and technology trends into multi-channel communication strategies.
• Experience collaborating with behavioral scientists, qualitative research consultancies, DE&I specialists, data teams, and technology teams.
• Direct-report management, mentoring, presentation, storytelling, operational, and organizational skills.
• Experience creating thought-leadership content, workshops, educational playbooks, and evidence-based innovation frameworks.

Nice to have

• Experience with government or public-sector communications and behavioral change programs.
• Experience working with external technology partners, social platforms, creator networks, or inclusive beta tests.

Culture & Benefits

• Collaborative environment focused on curiosity, kindness, growth, and meaningful public-sector impact.
• Access to global hirify.global and WPP networks, learning opportunities, employee resource groups, and in-office events.
• Medical, retirement, vision, and dental benefits, paid time off, partner discounts, and mental health awareness days.
• Hybrid working model with regular in-office collaboration and flexibility available through discussion during the interview process.