Principal Consultant

Principal Consultant (Commerce & Digital) – RefinedWho We AreIf you would like to know a bit more about this opportunity, or are considering applying, then please read the following job information.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, 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. Principal Consultant needed to join our Consultancy team at VML Enterprise Solutions.We are seeking a visionary and distinguished Principal Consultant to influence and drive transformation at the highest levels of our consultancy. This role offers an opportunity to act as a trusted advisor to C-suite global business leaders, shaping the future of our consultancy solutions on a global scale. As a senior figure, you will mentor and lead clients and internal teams toward success, delivering impactful business outcomes, while fostering a people-first culture across our Consultancy team and the entire Business Services department.Other core elements of this role include the following responsibilities.Orchestrating teams with diverse, cross-functional skill sets to collaboratively generate strategic, high-quality solutions to complex client challenges.Demonstrating a passion for deciphering and resolving intricate client problems within the digital landscape.Proactively identifying new opportunities for client support by leveraging deep client insights and extending value beyond initial engagements.Utilising advanced communication and analytical skills to swiftly dissect client issues, providing clear, actionable strategies in ambiguous, high-pressure situations.What You’ll Be DoingYou will have a distinguished consultancy background or executive leadership position, with profound expertise in multiple specialized sectors. Ideally, your experience spans at least 1–2 key industries, such as retail, FMCG/CPG, B2B, or automotive.Seniority and scope may be comparable to roles such as Consultancy Director, Consulting Manager, Lead Consultant, Senior Strategy Consultant, Head of Digital, Digital Director, or Management Consultant.Key ResponsibilitiesClient Engagement & Relationship Management: Operate at C-suite level to engage and lead clients through complex transformational change across omni-channel ecosystems.Lead transformational questions that drive global client success across experience, technology, and organizational change.Lead cross-functional engagements and serve as the primary contact for senior client stakeholders across major accounts.Build and nurture strong, trusted relationships with clients, understanding their business challenges and objectives.Proactively identify and pursue opportunities to expand existing client relationships and generate new business.Team Leadership & Development: Lead, mentor, and coach junior consultants; foster a collaborative, high-performing environment; empower team members to develop skills and take ownership.Promote knowledge sharing and best practices across the team and wider organization.Strategic Consulting & Solution Delivery: Provide strategic guidance in eCommerce and specialist sectors; communicate clearly, ask questions, and listen to get to the core of client problems.Bring clarity to ambiguous situations, applying advanced problem-solving to analyze complex business problems and overcome obstacles quickly.Think laterally to assess client needs from a broader perspective.Conduct thorough business analysis to identify pain points and opportunities for improvement.Understand technologies within digital ecosystems (eCommerce platforms, CMS, PIM, etc.) and agile delivery methodologies.Develop and present proposals, roadmaps, and presentations that articulate value propositions clearly.Support the delivery function with business insights to keep the team focused on outcomes.Continuous Improvement & Innovation: Identify and implement process improvements to enhance efficiency, output quality, and client satisfaction.Stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies, and best practices; incorporate learnings into work.Contribute to development of internal methodologies, frameworks, and tools.What We Want From YouExtensive experience in management or consultancy roles within the eCommerce domain.In-depth specialist sector knowledge in at least 1–2 areas, preferably including retail, FMCG/CPG, B2B, or automotive.Proven leadership skills with the ability to lead and motivate cross-functional teams.Exceptional relationship-building and networking skills with senior stakeholders.Strong understanding of digital ecosystems and technologies, including eCommerce platforms, CMS, PIM, and agile methodologies.Advanced problem-solving skills with the ability to analyse complex business problems and develop creative solutions.Excellent communication and presentation skills, capable of articulating complex ideas to technical and non-technical audiences.Passion for client success and a commitment to exceeding expectations.Willingness to travel to client sites within the UK and potentially within the EU.What We Can Offer YouWe offer opportunities to work with leading brands worldwide, prioritizing career development and skill growth. We aim to empower you to make a difference, be yourself, and feel valued.Benefits include a discretionary bonus, training opportunities, competitive pension, medical insurance, life assurance, social events, holiday purchase/sell options, family-friendly policies, and retailer discounts.Our values and behaviours guide how we work: Connect Meaningfully, Inspire Creatively, Include Purposefully, and Approach Positively.VML Enterprise Solutions is a WPP Agency. We are an equal opportunity employer and consider applicants for all positions without discrimination. We are committed to a culture of respect and belonging. For more information, please visit our website and follow VML on social channels. Please review our Recruitment Privacy Policy and California Recruitment Privacy Notice when applying.Note: This posting may be updated as the role evolves.Seniority level: Mid-Senior levelEmployment type: Full-timeJob function: Consulting, Information Technology, and SalesIndustries: IT Services and IT Consulting#J-18808-Ljbffr