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Operations Lead

VML

Department: Operations

Location: San José, Costa Rica

Requisition ID: 10202

Who We Are:

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. 

Role Overview

The Operations Lead for VML CR  is crucial in overseeing and optimizing day-to-day operational activities while driving a culture of efficiency, collaboration, and continuous improvement. This individual will ensure seamless team coordination, process enhancements, and exceptional client experiences, aligning with VML’s core values of curiosity, courage, creativity, and collaboration.

Key Responsibilities 

Operational Strategy & Execution

  • Oversee daily operational activities, ensuring efficiency and adherence to established processes.  
  • Identify opportunities for process improvement and implement best practices to enhance productivity.  
  • Maintain operational excellence in alignment with VML’s organizational goals and values.  

Team Leadership & Development

  • Lead and inspire a cross-functional team, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work environment.  
  • Provide mentorship, guidance, and support to team members for their professional growth.  
  • Encourage innovation and a culture of continuous learning, embodying VML's principles of curiosity, courage, creativity, and collaboration.  

Client Engagement & Relationship Management

  • Work closely with the Head of PMO to understand client needs and expectations.  
  • Ensure seamless communication between internal teams and external stakeholders.  
  • Proactively address operational challenges to deliver exceptional client experiences and drive satisfaction.  

Financial Oversight & Budget Management

  • Partner with finance teams to manage budgets, ensuring cost-effectiveness and strategic financial planning.  
  • Monitor the financial performance of operational initiatives, identifying areas for optimization and efficiency.  
  • Align operational decisions with fiscal responsibility while driving sustainable growth.  

Key Qualifications & Experience 

  • Proven experience in operational leadership, process improvement, and team management.  
  • Strong analytical and problem-solving skills with a strategic mindset.  
  • Ability to build and foster relationships across teams and stakeholders.  
  • Excellent communication, organizational, and decision-making abilities.  
  • Experience in budget management and financial oversight.  
 

Required Qualifications:

  • Experience: Minimum 10 years in operational leadership, project management, or a related role.

  • Education: Bachelor’s degree in Business Administration, Operations Management, or a related field; a Master’s degree is a plus.

  • English: advanced 

  • Experience in a fast-paced agency or corporate environment.

  • Knowledge of project management methodologies (Agile, Lean, Six Sigma).

  • Familiarity with operational excellence frameworks.

  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining high-quality standards.

 

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. 

When you click "Submit Application", this will send any information you add below to VML. Before you do this, we think it's a good idea to read through our Recruitment Privacy Policy. California residents should read our California Recruitment Privacy Notice. This explains what we do with your personal data when you apply for a role with us, and, how you can update the information you have provided us with or how to remove it.

When you click "Submit Application", this will send any information you add below to VML. Before you do this, we think it's a good idea to read through our Recruitment Privacy Policy. California residents should read our California Recruitment Privacy Notice. This explains what we do with your personal data when you apply for a role with us, and, how you can update the information you have provided us with or how to remove it.