Initiative is different to other media agencies.
Initiative unlocks business growth for the world’s most ambitious brands. We believe in the power of media to reshape our industry and orchestrate a brand’s entire consumer experience, by balancing both what unites people and what makes them different. When brands unite people in culture, they build Fame, and when brands connect individuals to their unique journeys, they build customer Flow. Initiative builds Fame & Flow for brands like Nike, Amazon, Merck, LEGO, and T-Mobile.
Media responsibility is at the forefront of everything we do, whether it’s creating media plans that reflect the diversity of our communities, promote brand safety, and foster sustainability. Our agency celebrates diversity in an inclusive environment where all of our 6,000+ strong talent across 90+ markets feel seen, heard, and valued. Our vision is to create not only a better media company, but also a better media industry, and maybe even a better world.
Position Overview
As Manager, Media Planning / Communications Design, you are responsible for managing the production and application of accurate and insightful consumer, cultural relevant, media and market intelligence to contribute to an impactful communications/media plan.
With direction from your Associate Director or Director, you take the strategic design imperatives (Strategy On A Page: SOAP) and communications idea and deploy a variety of data and intelligence to identify and prioritize the best communications channels.
You are able to plot the course of action your team of Communications Designers needs to take, to address the challenge (tasks, approaches, tools, and timelines) and ensure best practice, innovative thinking is applied to the communications design fundamentals.
In this role, you are responsible for the preparation of the communications/ media plan flowchart via MediaTools or Lumina and ensuring the communications plan is built on solid, data rich fundamentals.
Working with partnerships, media publishers/ distributors/ suppliers, and your communications design team, you ensure the accuracy of the inputs required for the development of the media plan flowchart and are responsible for ensuring any changes made to the approach are reflected in the plan and documented to ensure financial compliance and accountable standards are achieved.
With more than 4 years in a Communications Design role, you are versed in the media planning design process/workflow, media fundamentals across all channels, tools and techniques.
You are able to share your thoughts clearly and succinctly in both written and presentation form—you will be expected to know how to use Powerpoint or Keynote Presentation Desktop applications to develop client ready, accurate and error free presentations
Responsibilities
Client
- Responsible for the creation of accurate substantiated and detailed media plans and media planning scenarios
- Responsible for the timely, accurate delivery of day to day requests from the team along with disciplined and organized call-reports and timely follow-throughs
- Responsible for organizing and developing client-facing category, culture and competitive tracking documents
Internal
- Work with the Associate Director and Partnerships team to develop the RFP to brief internal partnership’s/ SBU team and external partners
- Manage the team output and development of the flowchart including oversight of the plan being accurately produced within Ripple/ MediaTools/Lumina to address the reach/frequency and business goals
- Seek opportunities to extend beyond paid through the integration (and quantification) of owned, earned and shared media channels
- Lead the best practice production of audience and communications data and intelligence for the development of the communications plan, utilizing relevant tools and techniques
- Contribute to the ideation team sessions in conjunction with the Strategy team and relevant SBU to generate creative & compelling connections idea.
- Responsible for timely, accurate delivery of day to day requests from the client and internal team
- Oversight of brand media plans, financials, ATBs and billing documentation internally and for the client; able to know and speak to the plan inside and out
- Leads internal, client and partner agency status calls and updates; organizes and coordinates call-reports and ensures that follow-ups are documented and carried out in a timely manner
- Takes the challenge at hand (tasks, approaches, tools, and timelines) and ensure best practice, innovative thinking is applied to the communications design fundamentals
- Digests the client’s goals/target and leads compiling planning inputs – competitive reporting, syndicated audience research, landscape trends, campaign learnings
- Manage, train & mentor junior members of the team – Associate(s), Comms Designer(s)
Prioritization:
- 30% Client
- 60% Internal
- 10% Commercial
Key Performance Indicators (KPI’s):
Client
- Contribute key media inputs for best in class communications planning solutions that propel the communications idea
- Able to effectively lead the management of the client’s communications budget to successful outcomes
- Accurately and effectively manage client’s day to day communications design product requirements
Internal
- Able to successfully manage Communications Design planning outputs from team
- Key contributor to RFP process, including briefing and partner selection together with Partnership colleagues (may oversee this on smaller briefs / accounts)
- Able to deploy tools and techniques to deliver best in class communications planning outcomes across OESP
Commercial
- Contributor to SBU revenue growth via communications design (client base)
- Contributor to organic revenue growth from communications design scope (client base)
Desired Skills and Experience
- 4+ years in integrated planning role in media, publisher / vendor, or communications discipline (digital, content)
- Media planning skills must be sufficient and able to be taught to junior team members
- Category or audience experience as relevant per assignment
- 1+ years of experience in managing or developing staff
- Ability to delegate, develop and oversee direct reports
- Strong time-management and organizational skills
- Required PC proficiency and solid working knowledge of Microsoft Office (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.)
_____________________________________________________________________________________________
We See You
We embrace diversity, and our responsibility to maintain an inclusive environment is core to our culture and values. We see diversity of people and experiences as fuel for creativity and innovation needed to bring about the best experiences and services. A diverse workforce means we can grow together, be better problem solvers, and bring about long-term, meaningful change where we will achieve above and beyond our business goals. We are better together..
When you join Mediabrands, you join a global community and are valued for who you are – your lived experiences, the contributions you make, and the distinct perspectives you bring. Here, what you think and who you are is just as important as what you do. As we recruit, we are dedicated to looking beyond what a resume can show. If you think you’d be a great addition to the team but don’t have the exact experience or skills, we encourage you to apply and share your unique background with us. We see you at Mediabrands.
Wage and Benefits
We offer a Total Rewards package that includes medical and dental coverage, 401(k) plans, flex spending, life insurance, disability, employee discount program, employee stock purchase program and paid family benefits to support you and your family. To give you the ability to better meet your personal needs, and in support of your physical and emotional well-being, you will receive discretionary time off days and company-wide Appreciation Weeks and Wellness Days.
We also offer a competitive Total Compensation package, including a competitive salary and eligibility for an annual discretionary incentive award or a relevant incentive award.
The salary range for this position is $xxx to $xxx. Where an employee or prospective employee is paid within this range will depend on, among other factors, actual ranges for current/former employees in the subject position, market considerations, budgetary considerations, tenure and standing with the Company (applicable to current employees), as well as the employee’s/applicant’s skill set, level of experience, and qualifications.
Employment Transparency
It is the policy of Initiative, division of the Interpublic group, to provide equal employment opportunities to all employees and applicants for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, gender, age, religion, creed, national origin, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status, citizenship, genetic information, veteran status, disability, or any other basis prohibited by applicable federal, state, or local law.
The employer will make reasonable accommodations in compliance with the American with Disabilities Act of 1990. The job description will be reviewed periodically as duties and responsibilities change with business necessity. Essential and other job functions are subject to modification. Reasonable accommodation may be provided to enable individuals with disabilities to perform the essential functions.
For applicants to jobs in the United States: In compliance with the current Americans with Disabilities Act and state and local laws, if you have a disability and would like to request an accommodation to apply for a position with Initiative, please email accommodation@mbww.com.
IPG Mediabrands
Related jobs:
Job Description
A weekly YouTube series titled Keeping You Connected to Your Money is seeking a skilled Editor to join the production team in Houston, Texas. The series focuses on retirement planning, financial preparedness, and helping audiences stay financially secure through informative and engaging video content.
The production is looking for a creative editor experienced in crafting polished YouTube episodes that communicate financial topics in a clear and engaging way for viewers.
Job Responsibilities
- Edit weekly YouTube episodes focused on retirement and financial planning
- Assemble and polish footage into engaging long-form content
- Enhance pacing, graphics, transitions, and audio quality
- Collaborate with producers to maintain consistent branding and messaging
- Organize video assets and manage editing timelines
- Deliver broadcast-quality content optimized for YouTube audiences
Requirements
- Proficiency in Adobe Premiere Pro
- Previous experience editing YouTube or educational content preferred
- Strong storytelling and pacing skills
- Ability to communicate financial or educational concepts visually
- Reliable and detail-oriented with strong time management skills
- Ability to work collaboratively with the production team
Compensation Details
- Paid position
- Compensation discussed upon selection
Job Description
An independent feature film titled Your Wife Is Cheating on Us is now hiring crew members for an upcoming production filming in and around Houston, Texas. This dramatic feature follows Kelly Bennett, a woman whose seemingly perfect life begins to unravel as she enters a dangerous affair with her husband’s twin brother, risking everything for passion and emotional fulfillment.
The production team is seeking experienced and motivated crew professionals to help bring this emotionally driven feature film to life. Paid positions are available for selected applicants.
Job Responsibilities
Cinematographer
- Capture cinematic visuals for the feature film production
- Collaborate with the director to establish visual style and tone
- Manage camera setups, lighting composition, and shot execution
- Ensure high-quality footage throughout production
- Help create emotionally compelling visual storytelling
Production Assistant
- Assist with on-set setup and breakdown
- Support cast and crew during filming days
- Organize production materials and equipment
- Help maintain efficient workflow on set
- Provide general production support as needed
Requirements
- Previous film production experience preferred
- Strong teamwork and communication skills
- Ability to work in a fast-paced production environment
- Experience with cinematography, camera operation, or production support is a plus
- Reliable transportation and availability for filming in the Houston area
- Passion for independent filmmaking and storytelling
Compensation Details
- Paid crew positions
- Compensation discussed upon selection
Job Description
An exciting social media marketing initiative is seeking emerging filmmakers to join the production team for a thrilling narrative project filming in and around Houston, Texas. The project, Mission: Manduu, is designed for Instagram and TikTok audiences and centers around a high-stakes story involving cutting-edge EMS technology, mystery, and suspense.
This collaborative production offers hands-on experience for aspiring creatives looking to build their portfolios, expand industry connections, and gain valuable production experience in a professional creative environment.
Job Responsibilities
Showrunner
- Oversee creative direction and production workflow
- Coordinate storytelling, scheduling, and team collaboration
- Ensure the project vision is maintained throughout production
Director
- Lead on-set production and creative execution
- Direct cast and crew during filming
- Collaborate with creative team to achieve visual storytelling goals
Videographer
- Capture high-quality footage for IG/TikTok social content
- Film cinematic and engaging scenes optimized for social media
- Assist with lighting, framing, and camera operation
Editor
- Edit short-form narrative and marketing content
- Create engaging cuts tailored for social media audiences
- Enhance pacing, transitions, and visual storytelling
Production Assistant
- Support on-set setup and breakdown
- Assist crew with production logistics and organization
- Help maintain efficient workflow during filming
Requirements
- Passion for filmmaking, content creation, or digital storytelling
- Strong collaboration and communication skills
- Experience in directing, filming, editing, or production assistance preferred
- Interest in social media content and narrative storytelling
- Ability to work in a fast-paced creative production environment
- Emerging filmmakers and creatives encouraged to apply
Compensation Details
- Unpaid opportunity
- Hands-on production experience
- Portfolio-building opportunities
- Networking and collaboration with industry professionals
- Access to wellness-centered experiences and EMS sessions with Manduu
Job Description
A fun and engaging science YouTube series for children ages 4–12 is now hiring crew members for an exciting educational production filming in Tomball, Texas. The series focuses on making biology, physics, and chemistry concepts simple, entertaining, and easy to understand through hands-on experiments, energetic hosting, and playful storytelling.
The production team is seeking creative and reliable crew professionals to help bring this kid-friendly science series to life. Paid long-term contract opportunities are available for qualified applicants.
Job Responsibilities
Cameraman / Videographer
- Film YouTube-style educational content for children
- Capture interactions between the host and sidekick assistant
- Ensure clean framing, proper lighting, and visually engaging shots
- Film science experiments, close-ups, and action-based learning moments
- Suggest creative camera angles to improve storytelling
- Maintain visual consistency across episodes
Production Assistant
- Assist with on-set setup and breakdown
- Organize props and experiment materials
- Support talent and crew during filming
- Manage basic production needs on set
- Help maintain smooth workflow during filming days
- Provide general assistance to keep production organized and efficient
Requirements
- Previous experience in video production, filming, or production assistance preferred
- Strong organizational and communication skills
- Ability to work collaboratively in a fast-paced production environment
- Creative mindset with attention to visual storytelling
- Comfortable working on a children’s educational production
- Reliable transportation and availability for filming in Tomball, Texas
Compensation Details
- Paid crew positions
- Long-term contract opportunity
- Compensation discussed upon selection
Theater Production Crew Call
Job Description
A musical theater production is now seeking passionate and creative crew members for an upcoming live stage performance. This opportunity is ideal for theater professionals, students, and aspiring production crew members interested in gaining hands-on experience in live entertainment production. The team is looking for talented individuals to support multiple behind-the-scenes departments for a large-scale musical theater production.
Job Responsibilities
- Assist with live theater production operations and backstage coordination
- Support departments including dramaturgy, sound design, lighting design, and set construction
- Collaborate with directors, performers, and fellow crew members during rehearsals and performances
- Help build, organize, and maintain production materials and stage elements
- Follow production schedules and assist with technical theater preparation
Requirements
- Interest or experience in theater production, technical theater, or live entertainment
- Open to crew members with skills in sound, lighting, set building, or stage support
- Strong teamwork and communication skills preferred
- Ability to work in a fast-paced collaborative production environment
- Reliable availability for rehearsals, build days, and production schedules
- Passion for live theater and creative storytelling encouraged
Compensation
- Opportunity to gain hands-on experience in musical theater production
- Work alongside directors, performers, and theater creatives
- Build professional theater production and backstage experience
- Networking opportunities within the live entertainment and performing arts industry
Job Description
A production team is seeking local utilities crew members for a PBR event production taking place at the Air Force Academy in Colorado Springs. This opportunity is ideal for reliable production crew professionals interested in live event support and on-site utility work during a large-scale production event.
The production is specifically seeking local hires available to work during the scheduled event dates.
Job Responsibilities
- Assist with general production utility tasks during the event
- Support crew operations and on-site logistics
- Help maintain smooth event workflow throughout production
- Collaborate with the production team as needed
- Follow production schedules and on-site instructions
Requirements
- Must be local to Colorado Springs, Colorado
- Prior production or event utility experience preferred
- Reliable and professional work ethic required
- Must be available for scheduled production dates
- Applicants should apply via email only
Compensation Details
- Compensation details not disclosed
- Opportunity to work on a PBR event production
- Local hire production opportunity
Job Description
Shah Film Productions is now hiring 25 stagehands for event production work at the Ritz-Carlton Orlando. Crew members will assist with event setup and strike operations for an upcoming production in Orlando, Florida.
This is a paid labor opportunity ideal for individuals with stagehand, live event, or production support experience. Applicants may choose to work setup, strike, or both days depending on availability.
Job Responsibilities
- Assist with event setup and strike operations
- Load, unload, and move production equipment as directed
- Support production crew with staging and event preparation
- Follow safety procedures and production instructions
- Maintain professionalism and teamwork throughout the event
Requirements
- Seeking 25 stagehands
- Stagehand or live production experience preferred
- Must be reliable and able to work extended production hours
- Applicants should include:
- Full name
- Availability for set, strike, or both
- Relevant stagehand experience
- Ability to perform physical labor in a production environment
Compensation Details
- Paid opportunity
- $30 per hour
- Flexible scheduling available for setup day, strike day, or both
Job Description
The upcoming dark cinematic fantasy short film Salt In Her Throat is now seeking crew members for a summer production filming in North Alabama. Set in a grounded, atmospheric coastal world, the story follows a little mermaid 21 years after losing her voice, blending fantasy elements with emotionally restrained storytelling.
The production team is looking for creative collaborators with experience in period, fantasy, or immersive world-building productions. The film aims to create a lived-in visual atmosphere inspired by grounded fantasy and cinematic realism.
Job Responsibilities
- Collaborate with the director and production team throughout pre-production and filming
- Help build the visual and technical atmosphere of the film
- Contribute expertise in production design, wardrobe, sound, cinematography, and on-set coordination
- Maintain professionalism and teamwork in an independent film environment
- Assist in creating an immersive fantasy world grounded in realism
Requirements
Positions Needed
- Production Design / Set Decoration
- Props Master
- Costume Designer
- Wardrobe Stylist
- Hair & Makeup Artist
- Director of Photography
- Production Sound Mixer
- Boom Operator
- 1st Assistant Director
- Script Supervisor
- Still Photographer
Additional Preferred Positions
- 1st AC / 2nd AC
- Gaffer
- Key Grip
- Production Coordinator
- Production Assistants
Additional Qualifications:
- Experience with period pieces, fantasy productions, or immersive world-building preferred
- Hair, makeup, wardrobe, and set decoration experience strongly preferred
- Collaborative and creative mindset required
- Passion for independent filmmaking encouraged
Compensation Details
- Production is actively seeking investment and producing compensation
- Compensation is expected for crew members as funding progresses
- Opportunity to work on an ambitious independent fantasy short film project
Job Description
A corporate interview-style production shooting in Chambersburg is now seeking experienced local crew members for a one-day shoot. Producers are looking to hire reliable professionals who can help execute a polished corporate production with clean visuals, lighting, sound, and media management.
The production is currently sourcing crew in preparation for final approval and is seeking candidates who can work efficiently in a fast-paced on-set environment.
Job Responsibilities
Open crew positions include:
- B-Cam Operator
- Capture clean corporate interview coverage
- Work alongside the A-camera team
- Gaffer
- Assist with simple, polished interview lighting setups
- Coordinate lighting equipment and setup needs
- Grip
- Support lighting and production setup
- Assist crew movement and equipment handling
- Sound Mixer
- Capture clean interview audio
- Provide lavaliers, boom, and mixer/recorder setup
- DIT / Media Manager
- Handle media offload, verification, and organization throughout production
- Production Assistant (PA)
- Provide general set support
- Help maintain efficient production flow
Requirements
- Must be local to the Chambersburg area
- Production cannot provide lodging or transportation
- Prior corporate production experience preferred
- Must be able to work efficiently in a professional set environment
- Applicants should submit:
- Desired role
- Rate information
- Relevant gear details (if applicable)
- Portfolio or relevant work samples
Compensation Details
- B-Cam Operator: $550
- Gaffer: $600
- Grip: $600
- Sound Mixer: $650 labor + $350 kit fee
- DIT / Media Manager: $500
- Production Assistant: $250
Job Description
A comedy production titled No Commando is seeking actors and production crew members for a non-paid project. The production is casting multiple lead, supporting, and background roles for a comedic story centered around relationships, law enforcement, and over-the-top situations.
The team is also looking for crew members interested in gaining experience on an independent production set. Serious inquiries only.
Job Responsibilities
- Perform scripted scenes for a comedy production
- Collaborate with directors and fellow cast members during filming
- Attend scheduled rehearsals and production days
- Maintain professionalism on set
- Crew members will assist with technical and production support duties
Requirements
Lead Role
Tasha
- Female, ages 25–35
- Strong comedic and dramatic presence
Supporting Roles
Officer
- Female, ages 25–35
- Portrays a by-the-book cop
ShoKesha
- Female, ages 25–35
- Plays a laid-back CEA agent
Young T Wilson
- Male, ages 30–40
- Sheriff with a heart of gold
Father Support
- Male, ages 40–55
- No-nonsense second-in-command character
Yahura
- Female, ages 30–45
- Drama queen girlfriend role
Brian
- Male, ages 25–35
- Tasha’s friend and go-between
Shae
- Female, ages 21–27
- Hot-headed cop role
Erica
- Female, ages 25–35
- Tasha’s best friend
Background Roles
- Audience members
- Sheriffs
- No Commando members
Production Crew Needed
- Sound Engineer
- Cameraman
- Gaffer
- Assistant Director (AD)
Compensation Details
- Non-paid opportunity
- Experience and networking opportunity for actors and crew
Job Description
Moving Picture Rental is now seeking rental and production support staff in Central Florida. The company is looking for reliable drivers and crew support professionals to assist with equipment transportation and production logistics. This opportunity is ideal for film and production crew members looking to supplement their income between on-location projects.
Job Responsibilities
- Transport production and rental equipment to various locations
- Assist with production support and logistics operations
- Safely handle and store equipment when required
- Coordinate with the production and rental team on deliveries and pickups
- Maintain professionalism while representing the company on assignments
Requirements
- Valid driver’s license and reliable transportation preferred
- Experience in production, film, or equipment handling is a plus
- Ability to safely store production equipment at home or office is beneficial but not required
- Strong communication and organizational skills
- Must be located in or near Central Florida
Compensation Details
- Paid production support opportunity
- Compensation details shared with selected applicants
Job Description
An episodic film project is seeking crew members for “H-Town Chronicles: Episode 5,” filming in the Houston area. This creative production follows a high-energy, character-driven story set during spring break, blending humor, chaos, and urban adventure. The team is looking for passionate creatives to help bring this unique vision to life across multiple departments.
Job Responsibilities
- Assist in various production departments based on assigned crew role
- Collaborate with the production team to execute the creative vision
- Support on-set operations including lighting, sound, wardrobe, and logistics
- Maintain professionalism and adaptability in a fast-paced filming environment
Requirements
- Open to crew roles including Assistant Director, Gaffer, Grip, Sound Mixer, Boom Operator, Hair & Makeup, Wardrobe Stylist, BTS Videographer, Production Assistant, and Post-Production Editor
- Strong teamwork and communication skills
- Passion for film production and storytelling
- Ability to work on location in Houston
Compensation
- Unpaid opportunity
- Gain hands-on experience and build industry credits