Senior Manager, Business Affairs

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.WPPCP Team is seeking a detail-oriented and experienced NA Rights Manager to join our dynamic Talent/Rights Management team. Reporting to the Global Director of Rights Management, you will play a crucial role in ensuring all talent and third-party rights are cleared, contracted, and licensed for use across our diverse range of projects.Position Summary:As the NA Rights Manager, you will be the go-to expert for all things related to talent and third-party rights for projects originating in North America and extending to our global hubs. You will navigate the complexities of union and non-union talent agreements, ensuring compliance with SAG/AFTRA guidelines while advocating for the best interests of our clients. Your expertise will be instrumental in developing and implementing strategies for efficient rights management across all media channels, with a keen eye towards global repurposing and long-term asset utilization.About the Client: WPP | CP group leads the ecosystem that serves Colgate-Palmolive and its many diverse units around the world. The group works across multiple WPP agencies to ensure the best talent, expertise and resources are leveraged to meet and exceed our client’s needs.Colgate-Palmolive is a caring, innovative growth company that is reimagining a healthier future for all people, their pets and our planet. As CP (a client of WPP’s for over three decades), reimagines how they will help to shape a better future for all, the team at WPP | CP is a key partner in leaning into this greater purpose. There has never been a more exciting time to join the talented team dedicated to partnering with this globally recognized top brand and company in their transformation.Key Responsibilities:Talent & Rights Clearance:Consult with production teams on optimal approaches to talent usage, waivers, and contracts.Negotiate and manage talent contracts and re-negotiations, ensuring favorable terms and compliance.Secure usage rights for all project elements, including talent, music, stock footage, and other third-party materials.Conduct thorough rights research and clearance for both original and stock content.Contract Management & Administration:Draft, review, and process talent agreements, ensuring accuracy and adherence to legal requirements.Manage talent payments, track invoices, and maintain meticulous financial records.Generate and analyze talent estimates, renewals, and usage reports.Maintain comprehensive records of all rights agreements, ensuring easy access and efficient retrieval.Collaboration & Communication:Work closely with producers, account teams, and the global rights management team to ensure seamless project execution.Collaborate with our Prague and Latin America offices, acting as a regional liaison for shared client assets and global policy implementation.Build and maintain strong relationships with talent agencies, stock companies, and other industry partners.Technology & Systems: Utilize rights management software (e.g., WPP Rights Management System) to track rights, generate reports, and manage talent information.Manage talent and asset information within our digital asset management (DAM) system, ensuring accurate metadata and efficient searchability.Stay abreast of industry trends and best practices in rights management technology and processesStay abreast of Generative AI, as it applies to rights and third parties through our WPP resources.Qualifications:Minimum 5 years of proven experience as a Talent Manager, TV/Digital Producer, or in a similar role with a strong focus on rights management.Comprehensive understanding of SAG/AFTRA guidelines and experience negotiating talent agreements within a union environment and processing all talent information via Extreme Reach platform.Deep knowledge of copyright law, intellectual property rights, and industry best practices for rights clearance and licensing.Exceptional organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously in a fast-paced environment.Strong negotiation, communication, and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build rapport with diverse stakeholders.Proficient in using rights management software, digital asset management systems, and Microsoft Office Suite, google suite and Extreme Reach talent management software.The base salary range for this position at the time of this posting is indicated below. Individual compensation varies based on job-related factors, including location, business needs, level of responsibility, experience, and qualifications. We offer a competitive benefits package, click WPP Benefits for more details._$60,000—$140,000 USDAt VML, we are committed to fostering an all-inclusive work environment that is both rewarding and career-forward. Our Inclusion, Equity & Belonging initiatives, alongside the VML Foundation, reflect our dedication to giving back and making a positive impact in our communities and beyond. Our people are the heartbeat of our organization—creators, doers, innovators, makers, and thinkers—who drive not just marketing, but meaningful experiences that resonate in every action and interaction.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. 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