Specialist, Media Strategy

The Specialist, Media Strategy & Comms Planning supports the development and day-to-day management of AutoNation’s media strategy and communications plans.

This role helps translate enterprise goals into clear media objectives, audience plans, and channel recommendations, and supports the Senior Manager in guiding how budgets are allocated and how performance is evaluated. The Senior Specialist works across Strategy, Analytics, Finance, Operations, and Agency partners to turn strategy into practical, executable plans and to keep in-market performance on track.

Key Responsibilities

Media Strategy & Architecture

•    Define media objectives, KPIs, and success metrics aligned to enterprise goals.
•    Establish audience segmentation and orchestration logic across the full customer journey.
•    Define channel roles and upper/mid/lower funnel investment strategy.
•    Lead media mix optimization and investment modeling.
•    Design the enterprise measurement framework, including diagnostics, incrementality testing, and structured learning agendas.
•    Define and continuously evolve the media operating model (workflows, tools, AI enablement, planning cadence).
•    Identify scalable innovation opportunities and prioritize strategic tests.
•    Partner cross-functionally to ensure plans reflect both brand strategy and local market realities.
•    Track automotive, digital, and societal trends; provide thought leadership and innovative planning approaches. 
•    Own vendor relationships and stewardship. 

Comms Planning 

•    Oversee development of quarterly and monthly communications plans.
•    Approve budget allocations across lines of business, markets, and channels.
•    Define flighting, sequencing, and reach/frequency guardrails.
•    Prioritize major launches, test roadmaps, and strategic initiatives.
•    Ensure cross-channel creative and messaging alignment.
•    Provide clear guidance on investment strategy, trade-offs, and performance shifts.

Team & Cross-Functional Leadership

•    Align with Analytics, Finance, Operations, and Agency partners to ensure strategic intent translates to execution.
•    Ensure governance and accountability across planning and activation.

Required Skills & Experience
•    4+ years of integrated media planning & strategy experience, including leadership of multi-market/localized strategies. 
•    Hands-on (‘keyboard’) media planning and buying experience, complemented by agency-side expertise, with a strong background in automotive and/or retail marketing.
•    Proven ability to manage, vendors, and large-scale budgets.
•    Expertise in translating market insights into multi-channel strategies.
•    Strong analytical, strategic, and leadership skills

Exciting Benefits and Perks Await You:

• Competitive compensation and 401k matching

• Enjoy a healthy work-life balance with insurance plans (health, dental, vision) and maternity benefits.

• Associate purchase and discount programs for new and pre-owned vehicles, services, parts, collision, accessories, and AutoGear

• Access amazing deals and discounts through YouDecide, a website with offers from top providers and retailers

• Join our DRVPNK mission to raise and donate millions of dollars to cancer research and treatment, partnering with cancer charities nationwide

AutoNation is one of the largest automotive retailers in the United States, offering innovative products, exceptional services, and comprehensive solutions, empowering our customers to make the best decisions for their needs. With a network of dealerships nationwide strengthened by a recognized brand, we offer a wide variety of new and used vehicles, customer financing, parts, and provide expert maintenance and repair services. Through DRV PNK, we have raised over $40 million for cancer-related causes, demonstrating our commitment to making a positive difference in the lives of our Associates, Customers, and the communities we serve.
 

AutoNation is committed to creating a diverse, equitable, and inclusive environment in our workplace and the services we provide. We welcome candidates from all backgrounds who are passionate about making a positive impact. Even if you do not meet every requirement, we encourage you to apply. Join our team and help us foster a culture of belonging while contributing to our revolutionary work in the automotive industry. We value innovation, teamwork, and a commitment to making a positive impact in the world.