Resource Manager (6 Month FTC)

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.

About The Pharm: The Pharm is an integrated, multi-specialty service and consulting model within WPP, dedicated to our client, Walgreens Boots Alliance (WBA). Our shared mission is to help people across the world lead healthier and happier lives. The 150+ experts assembled at The Pharm (across Essence Mediacom, Ogilvy PR and VML) have a unique opportunity to dedicate ourselves to one client in pursuit of their ambitious mission, while collaborating with experts from across several agencies (and areas of expertise) within WPP.

Role Overview: We are seeking a highly organized and proactive Resource Manager to join our Boots Pharm team on a 6-month Fixed Term Contract. You will be responsible for the effective allocation and management of creative resources within the team, ensuring optimal utilization and alignment with project needs. This is a critical role that requires excellent communication, problem-solving, and stakeholder management skills. You will be the central point of contact for resource allocation, working closely with Team Leads, Heads of Department, Project Managers, and the Commercial team.

What Youll Be Doing:

• Allocate resources to live projects in collaboration with Team Leads and Heads of Department.
• Ensure team members are aware of project assignments and address any overruns with Project Managers.
• Manage daily project priorities and urgent resource requests.
• Work with the Creative Services Director to ensure projects are resourced correctly and the creative department is being utilised to capacity.
• Interpret resource requests from Project Managers to understand short- and long-term needs.
• Run weekly Resource meetings with Project Managers to resolve conflicts and ensure project understanding.
• Partake in weekly resource meetings with Operations, People, and Finance Directors to ensure alignment, including utilisation reporting to senior leaders.
• Manage the freelance process: identifying needs, obtaining approvals, arranging interviews, negotiating rates, and providing feedback.
• Track freelance utilization and build business cases for extensions.

About You: A resource manager with experience of working within a fast paced agency and a strong creative understanding. Well networked and experienced in recruiting across platforms such as LinkedIn and YunoJuno. Experience of managing multiple internal stakeholders with conflicting workload priorities. Exacting attention to detail and proven ability of solving resourcing issues. A keen problem solver with experience of resourcing large departments.

Desired Skills and Experiences:

• Proven experience (3+ years) in resource management within a creative agency environment.
• Strong understanding of creative agency workflows and roles (e.g., Design, Copywriting, Strategy, UX/UI).
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
• Proficiency in resource management software and tools (e.g., Float, Resource Guru, Monday.com).
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Ability to manage multiple priorities and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Experience with budget management and cost control.
• Familiarity with WPP agency structures and processes is a plus.
• Experience with YunoJuno or similar freelance platforms.

Whats in It for You? Aside from a generous annual leave allowance and pension allowances, you will have access to a whole host of other benefits and activities such as: Life Assurance, Permanent Health Insurance, BUPA, Enhanced family friendly policies, Well-being Programme, Employee Assistance Support, Cycle to Work Scheme, Eye Care and Glasses Vouchers, Season Ticket Loans, WPP Discount.

Impact & Inclusion: WPP (VML) is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their career. We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we've adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office an average of four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.