At a glance

If you’re ready to take your skills to the next level and build a career at an award-winning creative agency with the strategic power of a technology consultancy, then VML is the right place for you! And there's no better way to start than by joining VML's Catalyst Academy 2026!

During this exciting eighteen-month early career programme at one of our offices around the APAC region, including Singapore, India and our APAC Headquarters (based in Singapore). You'll have the opportunity to work with some of the biggest brands in the world, including Coca-Cola, Unilever, Pizzahut, Ford, and Wendys. As a part of this program you will get in-depth experience across the breadth of VML's connected capabilities and offerings across the pillars of Brand Experience, Consulting, Commerce, Customer Experience and Technology & Transformation. 

This commitment to connection extends beyond our client work and into our communities. We're proud to make a positive impact through initiatives like the VML Foundation, which has contributed over $3.2 million to charitable causes.

But it's not just about work - The Catalyst Academy is also about developing new skills, building camaraderie and having fun with fellow Catalysts. Plus, we'll help you craft a personal branding framework, so you’ll be primed for a purpose-driven career within VML and beyond.

So, if you're a tech-savvy data whiz or a creative idea generator looking to build a dynamic career in marketing, apply now to join The Catalyst Academy at VML. At VML, you won't just do the best work of your career. You'll leave your mark on the world. You'll do this by creating connected brands - brands that become a part of people's lives and drive growth for client partners. We can't wait to see what you can do! 

The programme starts in April 2026, with applications open between January 5 - January 31!

The Catalyst Academy really highlighted the scale of how collaborative and also supportive this network really is!

Zac Serafim

Sydney Catalyst from The Catalyst Academy 2024

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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 18 months
  • Industry qualifications like the IPA Global Certification
  • Access to the wider WPP network
  • Multitude of groups and communities you can be part of
  • The opportunity to make your mark

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. 

Bring your creativity, problem-solving skills, and passion for connection, and let's drive growth together. 

We believe in the power of differences and all backgrounds and passions are welcome. Apply now and ignite your marketing journey! 

Pieces of Advice from our 2024 Catalysts

Jean Advice

Jean Lin

Jean, from our Shanghai office shares her cliche yet useful advice for the academy.

Hear from Jean
Kriti Advice

Kriti Bhatnagar

From being a little scared, to getting the whole picture, Kriti from our India office shares her advice.

Hear from Kriti

Explore our locations (go on, have a scroll)

Our Catalyst Academy continues to expand and is now available across 3 offices and 11 dynamic teams in the APAC region. You'll have the opportunity to build your international network and work with experts seamlessly connecting Brand Experience, Customer Experience, and Commerce (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): 

Being a catalyst taught me alot about close department teamwork and how a team works together to push the project forward.

Claudia Chang, Taiwan Catalyst 2024

The experience of a lifetime

Claudia project

Claudia Chang

Hear from Claudia on her experience working on one of her most memorable projects. 

Hear from Claudia

Our Leaders

2022 YCT 5

Hear from Yi-Chung, CEO APAC

I am excited that we are launching the next round of the Catalyst Academy in APAC. Last year’s programme was a resounding success, our participating offices benefiting with an infusion of fresh energy, and all our Catalysts given permanent offers. I am glad that so many offices are participating this time round to increase our talent pipeline for the future and am confident that this year’s program will be as good if not better!

Bernadette Chan Side

Hear from Bernadette, CPO APAC

The Catalyst Program has truly been a game changer for our previous cohorts, offering unparalleled exposure through hands-on experience, mentorship from industry-leading marketers, and access to cutting-edge tools and technologies essential for today's top global brands. Designed for early career entrants, the program provides comprehensive learning, real-world experience, and invaluable professional networking opportunities. At VML, we are committed to fostering a supportive, inclusive, and collaborative work environment. I am thrilled to welcome the new cohort and provide them with a connected employee experience, empowering them to make their mark as future leaders in the industry.

Our Talent Team

Supria Headshot

Supria, Head Of Talent APAC

It has been inspiring to watch every one of our Catalysts grow and develop through rotations and flourish at VML. I can't wait to welcome Catalysts 2026 and support them through the eighteen months journey packed with exciting opportunities for learning and thriving at VML.  

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Celeste, Senior Talent Executive APAC

Celeste's top tips for applying to the Catalyst Academy:

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

• Think about why you'd like this role

• Understand the role you applied for

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

Application Process

CA Timeline 2026

Our Core Values

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Heart

Heart is our foundation of empathy and trust. It’s how we build meaningful connections within our teams and with the world, ensuring our work resonates on a human level.

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Brains

Brains is our engine for innovation. It’s the combination of relentless curiosity and collaborative intelligence that allows us to simplify the complex and redefine what’s possible.

Core values courage 1x1 text

Courage

Courage is our commitment to brave ideas. It’s the conviction to challenge the status quo, champion what’s right, and take the calculated risks necessary to create truly impactful work.

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.

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 [email protected] 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. Please note that this is a fully on-site role. 

No. A degree or work experience is 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 take accessibility seriously. If there are any accommodations requirements, please email us at [email protected].

Please provide your contact information to continue.

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