Head of Strategy

Hybrid

Agency :Havas Worldwide SOUTH AFRICA

Job Description Summary : The Head of Strategy is a critical role, responsible for shaping the strategic vision and direction of a leading media and creative agency operating in the dynamic African market. This role will drive insights-driven campaigns and ensure a deep understanding of the African consumer and media landscape for both the agency and its diverse clientele.

Job Description :

Mission & Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership:

Develop and articulate the agency's overall strategic vision, ensuring alignment with market dynamics and growth objectives.

Oversee strategic planning, setting long-term goals, and ensuring effective implementation across the agency.

Lead the development and execution of innovative marketing and advertising campaigns that resonate with African audiences.

Innovation champion to review and lead the implementation of new interventions

Market Analysis and Insights:

Conduct in-depth market research, analyze consumer trends, demographics, and the evolving media landscape across diverse African markets.

Drive a culture of insights-driven decision making, using data analytics to inform strategic choices, creative executions, and optimize campaign performance.

Champion the development of proprietary tools and frameworks for understanding the African consumer.

Client Collaboration:

Build strong partnerships with existing clients, understanding their business challenges and identifying strategic opportunities.

Lead new business pitches, showcasing the agency's unique insights, strategic capabilities, and creative excellence.

Nurture and expand client relationships through insightful thought leadership and proactive solutions.

Team Leadership & Development:

Guide and mentor a team of talented strategists, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment.

Attract, develop, and retain top strategic talent within the agency.

Ensure clear goal setting, regular feedback, and development opportunities for team members.

Thought Leadership:

Represent the agency as a thought leader in the African media and creative industries through public speaking, publications, and industry events.

Establish the agency as a driving force behind understanding and engaging modern African consumers.

Qualifications & Languages

Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Business, Marketing or Advertising

Languages: English (Fluent)

Previous experience & Industry background

10+ years of progressive experience in strategic leadership roles within media, advertising, or related fields.

Proven track record in strategy development and execution for major brands, with experience in the African market being highly advantageous.

Deep understanding of consumer behaviour, market segmentation, and digital marketing trends across diverse African countries.

Strong analytical skills and demonstrated ability to translate data and insights into actionable strategies.

Excellent communication, presentation, and interpersonal skills with the ability to influence and build relationships at all levels.

Proven ability to lead and inspire a dynamic team of strategists.

Soft skills & Competencies

Market research

Market intelligence

Marketing strategy

Qualitative Brand, Consumer, Market analysis

Storytelling

Strategic communications planning

Media and media planning

Strategic thinker

Analytical

Audience data sources

Team management

Leadership

Communication

Presentation

Collaborative

Interface with clients and multiple stakeholders

Ability to distil information & complex research findings

Listen to client needs

Accountable

Technical Skills

Business Intelligence & Analytics software

Insights solutions

Planning tools

Office software

Tools

TGI

BrandMapp

Orinco

Adintel

GWI

Contract Type :Permanent

Here at Havas across the group we pride ourselves on being committed to offering equal opportunities to all potential employees and have zero tolerance for discrimination. We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applicants irrespective of age, sex, race, ethnicity, disability and other factors that have no bearing on an individual’s ability to perform their job.

JR0071903