Public Relations Account Director

Job Purpose

The PR Account Director effectively leverages experience, knowledge, and skills to drive innovative thinking while balancing client, agency and team needs. This position provides strategic leadership in developing and leading marketing communications plans and overseeing project execution for clients. The PR Account Director is also adept at driving additional business opportunities in conjunction with other agency managers. They serve as senior agency contact for assigned accounts with a demonstrated ability to manage complex client relationships.

Position Requirements

Education/Experience:

Four-year college degree, preferably in public relations, journalism, communications or a marketing-related field. Higher-level education or accreditation in communications or related field preferred. Minimum 8 years of client service and team leadership experience in a creative agency.

Skills/Knowledge/Ability:

• Ability to lead strategic planning efforts that result in strong client business results.
• Up-to-date knowledge of omnichannel marketing communications best practices.
• Proven track record for developing and growing profitable accounts.
• Persuasive and credible consultative selling skills
• Excellent oral and written communication skills.
• Proven strength in team leadership.
• Excellent presentation skills.
• Complex problem-solving abilities.
• High degree of emotional intelligence.
• Ability to demonstrate enterprise thinking.

• Models initiative and enthusiasm for team members; serves as a mentor.
• Organizes and delegates team tasks for maximum efficiency.
• Provides approval on key project milestones.
• Provides daily supervision and conducts performance reviews.
• Fosters collaboration and teamwork among various agency disciplines.
• Develops and directs client leadership plans with specific goals for growth and profitability.
• Serves as senior-level contact for all assigned clients.
• Develops strong relationships with clients with goal of becoming a trusted advisor.
• Handles clients concerns with urgency and diplomacy.
• Identifies potential new clients for agency growth
• Participates in new business pitches and RFPs as assigned.
• Stays abreast of industry trends in client industries and offers frequent proactive ideas.
• Turns data into actionable client insights.
• Serves as a thought leader for both clients and internal teams.
• Stays abreast of happenings in the local business community
• Participates on boards and/or industry associations.
• Engages in speaking opportunities on behalf of the agency.
• Provides clear direction and communicates effectively, conveying ideas and information clearly and persuasively to inspire action and alignment.
• Empowers and develops team members, recognizing their strengths and providing opportunities for growth and advancement.
• Holds team members accountable for results, setting high standards of performance and driving continuous improvement.