Highwire is hiring : Public Relations Account Director (B2B Technology, Cybersecu

Public Relations Account Director (B2B Technology, Cybersecurity, Financial Services)

Overview The Account Director position is a unique opportunity to become a leader for an innovative PR agency. As a member of our management team, this individual must be a visionary creative type with 7+ years of experience growing teams and delighting clients. The Account Director will lead 4 to 5 teams, overseeing the development of high-level strategy with clients to ensure the team is successful with media strategies. You will also be involved in new business development and operational leadership. As a member of senior management, this individual will serve as a mentor, manager and lead by example for all account teams on client management, quality assurance, staff development and strategic guidance. If you have been waiting to discover a role that allows you to be a catalyst in a thriving, meaningful workplace, then Highwire might be just the place for you.

Key Responsibilities

Media / Influencer Relations

Strong relationships particularly with business, broadcast and influencer media and ability to direct staff to develop the same.

Strong grasp and creative use of social media channels to engage and support efforts.

Ongoing engagement of media for the agency (e.g. blog Q&A, lunch talks, etc.).

Experience measuring the ROI of communications activities.

Experience with social media influencer engagement, content campaigns, and media coverage amplification.

Client Service / Management

Deliver exemplary client service for specified clients.

Developing and maintaining a strong working relationship with the client who listens and values your advice.

Developing a strong working knowledge of your clients' business, their competitors and relevant industry bodies.

Identifying key messages and audiences and developing strategic communications plans.

Delivering projects and campaigns on time and on budget.

Understanding the financials of each account, the allocated hours per month vs. actual fee and managing the accounts according to the resulting servicing levels.

Proactively communicating regularly with clients on status of deliverables and budget.

Identify relevant opportunities to secure organic growth and hit your revenue targets.

Develop and maintain strong relationships with appropriate members of the media.

Keep abreast of market trends, new technologies and client needs.

Own account management to ensure monthly client billing is accurate, client expenses are recouped, and accounts are current.

In addition to leading strategic planning efforts, fully partake in the execution of the programs we develop, as determined appropriate by account, including but not limited to writing / editing, media relations, social media, digital communications and crisis work.

Be an ambassador for the agency.

Writing Proficiencies

Ability to generate a plan for a campaign or an entire PR program.

Ability to generate and edit award submissions, press releases, fact sheets, backgrounders, biographies, tour reports, briefing books, contributed articles, speaking opportunity abstracts, pitches, Q&As, company memorandum and general team correspondence; also responsible for their production and assembly.

Professional, articulate and timely client communication.

Development of consistent, creative, successful pitches.

Agency Operations

Maintain 2 direct reports, assist in development of goals for reports, deliver annual reviews and quarterly check ins.

Participation in new business process including proactively identifying new targets, research and presenting at pitch.

Identify, attend and encourage others to attend networking events.

Maintain a respectful, enthusiastic, and professional attitude towards coworkers, clients, and outside colleagues and lead team by example.

Support teams and manage up and down.

Responsible use of flexible work policies.

Uses Highwire social channels; writes for Highwire blog.

Mentor junior staff to elevate development.

Self Development

Proactively set up quarterly goals with principal; track against goals and demonstrate growth.

Effectively prioritize responsibilities based on impact, timelines, workflow and client goals.

Drive projects forward independently, eliminating the need for managers to consistently check in re : follow through / task completion. Identify areas for self-improvement and bring suggestions and solutions to management.

Consistently hit deadlines or give enough notice if you won’t.

Attend regular networking events.

Requirements

At least 7 years PR agency experience

Record of high academic achievement with good degree and A level results, particularly English and / or Business

Core consumer brand PR background with some knowledge of corporate PR and crisis management

Experience of running a reactive and proactive press office and handling incoming press enquiries

Experience measuring the ROI of communications activities

Experience with social media influencer engagement, content campaigns, and media coverage amplification

Excellent publicity skills a strong understanding of the media, editorial requirements and what \'makes\' a story

Ability to demonstrate creativity and innovative thinking

A wide network of national consumer and business as well as regional contacts across a broad spectrum of media

Experience in delivering impactful PR campaigns from inception through to delivery with a strong cuttings folder to prove it!

Ability to build relationships internally and externally, interfacing at all levels

Superior people and communication skills, both verbal and written

Strong organizational and time management skills

Team player who works well under pressure

Thrives in an environment of flexibility and change

Highwire Perks

Competitive salary

Merit-based bonuses and promotions

Hybrid work model to suit your schedule and lifestyle

Excellent vacation policy including extended break for summer and winter holiday

Participate in Empower Hours on Fridays; Team has the ability to log off by 3pm

401K Match

Medical and dental benefits / FSA

Paid Parental Leave

Commuter Benefit

Home office equipment stipend

Growth Mindset Stipend of $100 annually for books, exhibitions, etc.

Technology reimbursement

Wellness benefit

Donation Match

Mentorship

Monthly recognition programs

Employee referral bonus

New business referral bonus

Quarterly Highwire fun events Thanksgiving is our favorite holiday

Dog friendly work environment

Extremely supportive, nurturing environment with many opportunities for learning and growth

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