At AKQA (part of WPP), we believe in the imaginative application of art and science to create beautiful ideas, products and services. Our teams blend creativity, technology and strategy to deliver connected experiences that transform brands and businesses. We are seeking a Pursuit Manager to support the growth of AKQA through the successful management of new business opportunities. This role is central to shaping compelling responses to prospective clients, leading the end-to-end pursuit process across pitches, proposals, RFIs and RFPs. Working closely with senior leadership, Strategy, Creative, Client Services and Delivery teams, the Pursuit Manager will bring structure, momentum and clarity to high-value opportunities, ensuring AKQA presents its best thinking in a compelling and differentiated way. ROLE REQUIREMENTS
Lead and manage the end-to-end pursuit process across new business opportunities, from qualification through to final submission
Partner with Growth leadership to define pursuit strategy, win themes and response approach for each opportunity
Create and manage detailed project plans, timelines, workstreams and responsibilities to ensure smooth execution
Act as the central point of contact across internal teams during live pursuits, driving alignment and momentum
Coordinate cross-functional contributors including Strategy, Creative, Experience, Technology and Client Services
Facilitate kick-offs, brainstorms, progress meetings and pitch rehearsals to maintain pace and quality
Oversee the development of high-quality RFP, RFI, proposal and presentation responses
Support the creation of compelling narrative, case studies and tailored content that reflects AKQA’s capabilities and values
Ensure all materials are delivered to the highest standard, on time and with strong attention to detail
Manage multiple concurrent opportunities, balancing priorities in a fast-paced environment
Gather feedback from internal stakeholders and prospective clients to assess outcomes and improve future pursuits
Capture learnings, templates and best practices to continuously evolve AKQA’s pursuit process
QUALIFICATIONS AND CHARACTERISTICS
3+ years’ experience in pursuit management, proposal management, business development or a similar role
Experience within a creative agency, consultancy, digital business or similarly fast-paced environment preferred
Excellent project management and organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple deadlines simultaneously
Strong written communication skills, with an eye for detail and clarity of message
Confident creating polished presentations and client-facing materials
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, particularly PowerPoint, Word and Excel
Calm under pressure, able to bring structure and momentum to fast-moving opportunities
Highly collaborative, with the ability to work effectively across senior stakeholders and diverse teams
Commercially minded, with an understanding of what makes a compelling and successful pitch
Proactive and solutions-oriented, anticipating challenges and driving progress
Passionate about creativity, innovation and producing world-class work
A natural relationship builder who creates trust and confidence with colleagues and stakeholders
We believe great work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we’ve adopted a hybrid approach including required in-office days. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers. ---
About WPP
WPP is the trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands. We unite cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, world-class creativity, next-generation production, transformative enterprise solutions and expert strategic counsel in a single company – powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing platform, WPP Open, to help our clients navigate change, capture opportunity and deliver transformational growth. For more information, visit WPP.com.
