Program Director - Temporary Worker

Hourly, Non-Exempt on Dentsu Payroll, W2 Remote or Hybrid depending on location Work in EST time zone with some flexibility Must be US based Position Overview We are seeking an experienced Temporary Program Director to lead transformational marketing initiatives for our premier client portfolio while driving excellence across our program management practice. This senior leadership position requires a strategic and operationally sophisticated professional who can oversee one or more high‑stakes programs, develop organizational capabilities, and serve as a trusted advisor to client executives. The ideal candidate brings deep marketing expertise, proven team leadership, and the ability to deliver exceptional results in fast‑paced, complex agency environments serving both domestic and international markets. Key Responsibilities Program Portfolio Leadership Direct a portfolio of enterprise‑level marketing programs for 1 or more Fortune 500 clients Define program vision, objectives, and success criteria in collaboration with client executives and agency leadership Establish comprehensive program roadmaps that integrate multiple workstreams across digital transformation, customer experience, data analytics, and technology implementations Ensure programs align with client business strategies and deliver measurable ROI and business impact Lead program steering committees with senior client stakeholders, facilitating strategic decision‑making and governance Manage program interdependencies, risks, and resource conflicts across the portfolio Delivery Excellence & Governance Partner closely with Creative, Strategy, Data & Analytics, Technology, and CRM leadership to ensure integrated program delivery Oversee end‑to‑end program execution ensuring deliverables meet quality standards, timelines, and budget parameters Implement robust governance structures including escalation protocols, change management processes, and risk mitigation strategies Monitor program health through comprehensive dashboards tracking scope, schedule, budget, quality, and client satisfaction metrics Conduct regular program health assessments and implement corrective actions to address challenges Ensure compliance with agency standards, client requirements, and regulatory obligations across all markets Lead crisis management and issue resolution for high‑impact program challenges Facilitate post‑program retrospectives capturing lessons learned and best practices Financial & Resource Management Manage program budgets ensuring profitability targets are achieved Oversee resource planning and allocation across programs, optimizing utilization and capability deployment Identify opportunities to improve operational efficiency and program profitability Operational & Process Excellence Drive continuous improvement initiatives that enhance delivery quality, team productivity, and client satisfaction Establish and refine program management methodologies, tools, and templates aligned with industry best practices Implement and optimize technology platforms supporting program planning, execution, and reporting Create standardized frameworks for risk management, change control, and quality assurance Education & Experience Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Business Administration, Communications, or related field required 12‑15 years of progressive program/project management experience in marketing advertising, consulting, or digital agencies is a must 4‑6 years of people management experience Proven track record managing complex programs valued at $5M‑$15M+ individually Extensive experience with enterprise‑level clients and multi‑year strategic initiatives Deep understanding of both US and international market dynamics and client expectations History of delivering programs that drive significant business outcomes and client satisfaction Leadership Competencies Exceptional leadership presence and influencing skills, comfortable engaging with senior executives Outstanding communication skills across written, verbal, and presentation formats Experience leading through ambiguity and complexity in matrixed organizations Demonstrated emotional intelligence and ability to navigate challenging stakeholder situations Technical Expertise Expert-level knowledge of program management methodologies including Waterfall, Agile, Scrum, and hybrid approaches Advanced proficiency with program management platforms (Monday.com, Workfront, Asana, Jira, Smartsheet, or similar) Comprehensive knowledge of integrated marketing channels: digital, social, mobile, and email Additional Qualifications Agile/Scrum certifications (CSM, SAFe, etc.) in addition to leading teams in Agile methodology Extensive experience at recognized marketing agencies or top‑tier consulting firms. (12‑15 years of progressive program/project management experience in marketing advertising, consulting, or digital agencies is a must) Background in management consulting or digital transformation The hourly pay range for this position is $73.32 - $118.67. The hourly pay rate for the successful candidate is based on a variety of factors, including relevant experience, knowledge, skills, and other factors permitted by law. Temporary employees are eligible for paid holidays in accordance with dentsu policy, as well as safe and sick time. This position is not eligible for any other benefits or other compensation. Location: USA - Remote - Maryland Brand: Merkle Time Type: Full time Contract Type: Temporary Dentsu is committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees. We do this without regard to race, color, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, pregnancy, childbirth, or related medical conditions, ancestry, physical or mental disability, marital status, political affiliation, religious practices and observances, citizenship status, genetic information, veteran status, or any other basis protected under applicable federal, state, or local law. Dentsu is committed to providing reasonable accommodation to, among others, individuals with disabilities and disabled veterans. If you need an accommodation because of a disability to search and apply for a career opportunity with us, please send an e‑mail to ApplicantAccommodations@dentsu.com by clicking on the link to let us know the nature of your accommodation request and your contact information. We are here to support you. #J-18808-Ljbffr