The Catalyst Academy

At a glance

At VML we create connected brands to drive growth. Ready to leave your mark in the world's largest agency? Keep scrolling.

If you're tech-savvy, data-driven, full of ideas, or creatively inclined, VML is your playground.

In today's diverse digital landscape, brands seek experts who can deliver across platforms, from creative content to data-driven experiences. Imagine inspiring consumers for brands like Coca-Cola, Unilever, Nestle, HSBC, and IKEA in groundbreaking ways.

Enter The Catalyst Academy - a 12-month program across our global campuses in the UK, Germany, UAE, and more. Here, you'll train, bond, and have fun while honing new skills. Plus, we'll help you craft an authentic personal brand, leveraging our expertise from working with top organizations worldwide.

At the program's end, you'll be primed for a purpose-driven career within our agency.

The programme starts in September 2025, with applications open between 6 May– 31 May.

A great opportunity to experience a 360 agency

What's in it for you?

Be part of an exceptional industry-leading entry level programme that combines training modules with practical work experience.

Competitive salary
Real work and responsibilities
In-depth training curriculum
2 week onboarding including training, eLearning and group projects
Bespoke client briefs throughout the 12 months
Access to the wider WPP network
Multitude of groups and communities you can be part of
The opportunity to make your mark

At a Glance

12 Months

Spent in unique departments across our business

At a Glance

Global network

Access to our clients, experts and network from day 1

At a Glance

Training and Mentorship

Bespoke training for your personal development and an established Catalyst Academy Alumni network

Ready for a challenge?

Join the Catalyst Academy to dive into the world of marketing with hands-on experience and tools needed for today's top global brands.

We seek ambitious, creative, collaborative, and curious individuals to join our team.

Whether you're starting your career, shifting gears, or exploring new avenues, we welcome you. Bring your creativity, problem-solving skills, and passion for connection, and let's drive growth together.

All backgrounds and passions are welcome. Apply now and ignite your marketing journey!

Top 3 tips from our Catalysts

Melissa

Melissa started as a Catalyst and is now working as a Global Strategy Manager. Listen to her tips:

1. Having cool ideas

2. Fresh perspectives

3. A knack for problem solving

Hear from Melissa

Saskia

Saskia started as a Catalyst and is now working as a Junior Art Director. Listen to her tips:

1. Be bold

2. Think outside the box

3. Show your personality

Hear from Saskia

Explore our locations (go on, have a scroll)

Our Catalyst Academy continues to expand and is now available in 8 locations across the EMEA region. You'll have the opportunity to build your international network and work with experts across our capabilities including data, strategy, marketing, creative and more (we don’t expect you to know what all this means right now - that’s where the Catalyst Academy delivers!)

To get started, choose the office location that's right for you from the list below.

(Please note: You must have Right to Work in the location you choose without Visa or future sponsorship):

Picture of stairs coming up to a big sign saying "VML MAP" which is the centre of excellence you would be working in, in Copenhagen

It’s a launchpad for a career in the industry - it’s nice going through the stages of career development together

Elle and Luke, Catalysts 2021

The experience of a lifetime

Patrick

Patrick was part of the first Catalyst Academy and is now a Senior New Business Manager in the UK.

Hear from Patrick

Ismail

Ismail is part of the current Catalyst cohort, based in the Creative team in Dubai.

Hear from Ismail

Our Recruitment Process

We're making applications a little more interesting! Our process opens May 6th and runs throughout the month. Choose your preferred location and department, then get ready to create your Vizzy profile – it's a great way to showcase your personality and skills. Think of it as a CV meets Pinterest.

If your Vizzy profile is a good successful, you'll be invited to interview with the hiring manager. It's that straightforward!

Watch the video below to get a glimpse into what you can expect.

Vizzy x vml catalyst academy launch video 2025 720p

Image of TK from the Talent Acquisition team smiling and holding a cup of coffee. This was taken in a very sunny Amsterdam

TK's top tips and tricks to help you get a feel for what we’re looking for:

• Don't be shy -let us see the real you!

• Do your research on VML and our industry!

• Plan your journey & let us know if you'll be late

• Go for smart casual, it's not the Ivy...

• Think about why you'd like this role

• Have a few questions for us!

Lisandra's top tips for interviewing:

• Bring your whole self - we want to know about your interests and passions

• Understand the role you applied for and why

• All experience is relevant - volunteering, part-time jobs, clubs and communities you're part of

• If you don't know, ask! It's important that VML is right for you and vice versa

Connecting Our Culture

We believe we're better together.

By bringing diverse viewpoints and experiences into our offices and work, we become stronger.

The Inclusion, Equity & Belonging team at VML works to create understanding and togetherness, in addition to promoting empathy through education, discussion, awareness, and advocacy.

Find out more about our culture

Our Core Values

Connect meaningfully

Foster purposeful relationships among colleagues and client partners.

Inspire creatively

Encourage inventiveness and infuse creativity into every aspect of our offering.

Include purposefully

Strive to ensure everyone feels included, valued and a true sense of belonging.

Approach positively

Contribute optimism to every situation to discover the best way forward together.

FAQs

Each of the locations has a unique Application link. Scroll back up to 'Our Locations', select where you want to work and you will find the link there.

We recommend you apply to your preferred location and preferred stream (if multiple are available in that location). This ensures your application is prioritised for that stream, increasing your chances of success.

You must have the right to work in the location without the need for visa sponsorship.

If you're not sure and would like more information, reach out to us at Catalyst.Academy@vml.com and we will be happy to help you.

Yes, you can apply to a location outside of the country you are based however, you must have the right to work in that location and be in a position to cover any relocation costs.

No. A degree or work experience are not required and will not affect your application.

As we are a global organisation, a B2+ level of English is required to ensure you are comfortable and can perform to the best of your ability.

We pride ourselves on being flexible and making work, work for you. Hybrid working is available across our offices.

We take accessibility seriously. If there are any accommodations requirements, please email us @catalyst.academy@vml.com

Growing the marketers of tomorrow

At a glance

What's in it for you?

At a Glance

At a Glance

At a Glance

Ready for a challenge?

Top 3 tips from our Catalysts

Melissa

Saskia

Explore our locations (go on, have a scroll)

Elle and Luke, Catalysts 2021

The experience of a lifetime

Patrick

Ismail

Our Recruitment Process

Connecting Our Culture

Our Core Values

Connect meaningfully

Inspire creatively

Include purposefully

Approach positively

FAQs

Where can I apply?

Can I apply to multiple locations?

Can I apply to a location outside of the country I am based in?

Do I need any work experience?

Is English Fluency required?

Can I work from home?

What if I require accessibility accommodations?