Program Director

Job Description:

We Dream. We Do. We Deliver.

At Merkle, a dentsu company, we power the experience economy. Whether we're building the next great app, running CRM at scale for global brands, delivering technology architectures that support millions of users, or providing world-class data, identity, and insights solutions, it's all in the name of crafting experiences that set brands apart from the competition. Backed by dentsu's legacy of innovation and creativity originating in Japan, we've spent over 35 years helping brands build loyalty, drive growth, and connect meaningfully with their audiences.

We've been named a global "Leader" by top industry analyst firms in categories as wide-ranging as digital transformation and commerce, experience design, engineering and technology integration, digital marketing, data science, CRM and loyalty, and customer data management.

We are now looking for an experienced delivery leader who bridges Delivery Management and the Commercial organisation — ensuring portfolio-level excellence across clients, projects, and teams. 

As Program Director at Merkle DACH, you drive consistent, high-quality delivery and measurable business impact within an assigned client portfolio. You partner closely with the Client Portfolio Director to ensure outstanding delivery performance, commercial alignment, and client satisfaction. You combine delivery excellence with strategic business acumen — able to manage complex multi-market engagements, influence senior stakeholders, and translate delivery success into long-term client growth. 

This is a senior, client-facing role within Delivery Management, requiring proven experience in leading large-scale programs and managing senior client relationships across regions. 

Key responsibilities

• Own end-to-end delivery performance for assigned portfolio clients, ensuring quality, timeliness, and profitability 
• Lead large, complex, multi-market programs, coordinating cross-functional teams and external partners 
• Partner with the Client Portfolio Director to align delivery and commercial goals, identifying risks and opportunities early 
• Act as the senior delivery point of contact and trusted advisor for client stakeholders, including C-levels 
• Drive consistent application of Delivery Management standards and methods across teams 
• Ensure transparency of delivery performance through KPIs, governance, and reporting 
• Contribute to business development by identifying growth opportunities within existing engagements 
• Coach and mentor Delivery Managers and Project Leads within the portfolio
• Represent the Delivery community within the assigned Portfolio Squad 
• Collaborate with other Program Directors and Delivery leadership to advance delivery standards company-wide 

Qualities and skills needed

• Minimum 15 years of experience in delivery or program leadership roles within consulting, agency, or technology environments 
• Proven track record managing large, complex, multi-disciplinary engagements 
• Strong commercial and strategic mindset; comfortable operating at portfolio and executive levels 
• Deep understanding of delivery governance, financial management, and operational excellence 
• Experience with both traditional and agile delivery methodologies 
• Exceptional stakeholder management and communication skills, including C-suite engagement 
• Demonstrated ability to coach, lead, and develop high-performing teams 
• Strong business acumen, problem-solving ability, and calm under pressure 
• Fluent English (written and spoken); additional languages are a plus, especially German or French 
• Willingness to travel as needed 

Why choose Merkle?

Innovation at Our Core: As part of dentsu's global network, Merkle pushes the boundaries of customer experience, integrating creativity, technology, and data to drive real-world impact. For over 35 years, we've been innovating to meet the changing needs of our clients.

Global Reach with Local Expertise: With over 16,000 employees across 30+ countries, and part of a 70,000 employees network at dentsu, Merkle blends global insights with a deep understanding of local markets to deliver personalized, effective solutions.

Collaborative Culture: At Merkle, your ideas and contributions truly matter. You'll join a team that fosters innovation, collaboration, and creative problem-solving. Together, we work on impactful international projects, making meaningful connections every step of the way.

What's in It for You?

Global Perspective: As part of a dentsu company, collaborate with over 70,000 talented colleagues across 145 countries to drive innovation on a global scale.

Flexibility & Balance: Enjoy hybrid work models, adaptable hours, and home office options.

Inclusive & Supportive Culture: We celebrate diversity and foster a respectful workplace where every team member's unique perspective is valued, and everyone is welcome.

Well-balanced reward package: We offer competitive salaries, volunteer days, wellness days, modern offices, and a multi-cultural environment that fosters creativity and innovation.

Innovation-Driven Work: Contribute to projects that are reshaping industries and driving transformation with next-generation technologies and strategies.

Purpose-Driven Culture: Be part of an organization that fosters sustainable growth for brands, people, and society—where every contribution makes a meaningful impact.

Growth Opportunities: Expand your skills through training, mentorship, and data-driven projects that reshape customer experience and business outcomes. Explore opportunities in the whole dentsu network to expand your reach.

*many more attractive benefits are waiting for you, for more details regarding additional benefits, please ask your recruiter

Ready to join the team? Shape your unique career and reach your full potential. Apply now and join us in transforming the future together.

*At dentsu, Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) is central to our vision: "To be at the forefront of people-centered transformations that shape society."

We cherish the unique talents and perspectives of all individuals, welcoming applicants regardless of gender, gender identity, nationality, religion, ethnicity, cultural background, sexual orientation, age, physical or mental ability. By embracing diverse perspectives, we create meaningful change and sustainable growth for our people, clients, and society. Our hiring decisions are guided by qualifications and role-specific requirements, ensuring a workplace free from discrimination and harassment.

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