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 Us: Passport Design, A VML Company Passport Brand Design is a creative branding company south of Los Angeles offering creative leadership to companies of all sizes. For over 20 years, Passport Brand Design has worked across multiple categories, in multiple markets throughout Australia, Asia and North America. We've built a team with extensive knowledge, insight and a global perspective. In partnership with 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. SENIOR STRATEGIST Reporting directly to the CSO at Passport Brand Design, this role supports planning activity on 1 or 2 lines of business on a cross agency team in the nicotine / vaping / tobacco category. This role will be based out of our Newport Beach office. It's perfect for someone who is driven by curiosity about people and culture. We're looking for a person who is open, both to the world and to new ways of thinking about brands and the way people construct them. In addition, you will need to be smart, collaborative, flexible, quick-witted and able to stand up for your ideas in an environment that is always stimulating and never dull. Sounds like you? Let's talk. You Will * Support planning activity on 1 or 2 lines of business on a cross agency team in the nicotine / vaping / tobacco category * Provide support, as needed, across agency * Develop detailed strategies to break through cluttered retail environments, enticing consumers from curb to counter. * Collaborate with team leaders to ensure the consistent delivery of marketing excellence in all agency output * Deliver ongoing thought leadership in areas related to agency and client business * Participate in the development of strategic partner alliances including the identification and application of innovative technologies/emerging media * A whole lot more You Bring * You have at least 3 years of strategy experience in an agency or related environment. * A solid understanding of agency and creative processes, including proficiency with driving campaigns. * The ability to travel occasionally within the US for client collaboration and key client market visits. * A proven track record in delivering insight-based strategic recommendations. * Experience interfacing with senior clients and building strong long-term relationships; and * An understanding of qualitative and quantitative research practices. * An understanding of the digital space is a strong asset. * Pull from different tools an frameworks to solve a variety of client problems * Create journey and ecosystems maps, uncover gaps and opportunities in the consumer experience ecosystem * Ensure communications and experiences are developed using data to be as personalizd as possible, synthesizing insights across consumer, cultural and category trends. * Lead engaging and productive workshops and planning sessions, whether in person or virtually. * Proactively stay on top of emerging trends, cutlure, and influences that affect the digital, CRM and retail world, as well as age-gated categories. #passportbranddesign VML is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion or belief, sex, age, national origin, citizenship status, marital status, military/veteran status, genetic information, sexual orientation, gender identity, physical or mental disability, or other protected group status. We believe in creating a dynamic work environment that values diversity and inclusion and strives to recruit a diverse slate of candidates to help us achieve that goal. 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 USD At 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. Before you do this, we think it's a good idea to read through our Recruitment Privacy Policy. California residents should read our California Recruitment Privacy Notice. This explains what we do with your personal data when you apply for a role with us, and, how you can update the information you have provided us with or how to remove it.