SVP, Investment

About Us:

Empower Media is one of the largest independent media agencies dedicated to delivering cutting-edge, data-driven media strategies that drive business outcomes for our clients. We specialize in integrated media planning, omnichannel activation, and innovation across traditional and digital platforms. We are looking for a strategic and dynamic leader to join our team and help shape the future of media strategy for our clients.

JOB SUMMARY

As the SVP, Investment at Empower, you will be the pivotal link between media activation, planning teams, partners, and clients. Your strong foundation in linear and digital media investment, combined with operational excellence and performance-driven mindset, will enable you to push boundaries and drive innovation across all media aspects.

As a key client-facing leader, you will translate business goals into actionable strategies, proactively managing campaigns to exceed expectations and deliver results. The ideal candidate will possess a strong perspective on industry trends, digital marketing innovation, and emerging technologies, positioning clients at the forefront of the digital landscape. You will lead a high-performing team, fostering accountability and creating a fast-paced, growth-oriented environment. Your ability to coach junior employees, communicate effectively with executive leadership, and act as a trusted partner to both clients and the agency is crucial.

The SVP, Investment will be the driving force behind client growth, leading teams and clients that deliver outstanding results. This role will be responsible for leading investment across a book of businesses, while supporting the CIO in the operational needs of the department. This hybrid position requires three days per week in-office to ensure visibility and collaboration.

Core Responsibilities:

• Lead all aspects of media investment strategy, planning, and execution across clients.
• Act as the key liaison between internal teams (strategy, analytics, planning, account) and external partners/vendors.
• Build and manage strategic partnerships with media vendors to stay ahead of market shifts, drive innovation, and secure advantageous opportunities for clients.
• Oversee media buying across national linear television and digital platforms — including programmatic, search, social, and CTV — ensuring integration and efficiency across channels.
• Lead multi-disciplinary teams in service of client business outcomes, including the facilitation of investment, activation plans, and performance measurement.
• Ensure the delivery of consistent and accurate campaign performance reports and insights in collaboration with analytics.
• Drive operational excellence in trafficking, billing, QA, and internal processes — streamlining workflows and maintaining accuracy.
• Serve as a senior client partner, offering guidance, media expertise, and thought leadership.
• Contribute to new business pitches and agency growth initiatives.
• Serve as a people-first leader, mentoring junior talent and ensuring team engagement and development.

Qualifications:

• 20 years of experience in media investment, buying, or related areas within an agency or media organization.
• Extensive hands-on experience in national linear TV planning and buying, as well as digital media.
• Proven leadership in managing high-performing cross-functional teams.
• Strong client-facing communication skills and ability to present to executive stakeholders.
• Strong understanding of the full media ecosystem (TV, CTV, digital, social, programmatic).
• Demonstrated ability to manage vendor relationships and drive cost efficiencies and value.
• Experience with media buying and planning platforms/tools.
• Highly organized with the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously.
• Passionate, collaborative, innovative, and committed to delivering results.

Why Join Us?

• Opportunity to work with high-profile brands and innovative clients.
• A collaborative and entrepreneurial environment that values strategic thinking.
• Competitive salary and benefits package, including professional development opportunities.
• Hybrid work arrangement to support work-life balance—Tues-Thurs in Chicago office.

Join us in shaping the future of media strategy! Apply today to be part of our dynamic team.