Account Manager

ROLE DESCRIPTION

The primary role of the Account Manager is to provide end-to-end support to the Team Account Director to efficiently manage the Team’s client portfolio.  This includes being accountable for all aspects of the agency’s business in relation to their clients. The candidate develops strong client relationships and has input into the development of strategic recommendations across their client portfolio. The role also includes the management and oversight of financial and all operational aspects of the accounts. 

Core responsibilities include: 

BUSINESS 

• Supports the Account Director to build strong agency-client relationships. 
• Can independently action and manage all campaign requirements and deliverables. 
• Is proactive, thinks ahead and adds value at every stage.
• Seeks out opportunities for generating revenue.
• Always looking for a better way and the bigger idea. 
• Supports the Account Director (and the broader Account Management team) with new business development and specific pitches as required. 

PROCESS 

• Manages the workflow, operational and quality processes across all other Agency Departments. 
• Gains the trust and respect of colleagues in all other Departments, particularly those in the Creative Department.
• In consultation with the Account Director, applies strong creative evaluation skills to be able to judge when creative is on strategy or not, and is able to work collaboratively with the Creative Team to strengthen ideas. 
• Possesses a thorough understanding of Agency internal production processes – support and explain production estimates and schedules for broadcast, online, print, collateral, etc.
• Ability to manage external supplier relationships and production processes to ensure optimal outcomes for clients and internal stakeholders.
• Identifies, develops, and implements efficient processes to accomplish Team objectives. 
• Seamlessly juggles multiple projects and tasks. 
• Assists with presentations to clients. 
• Hands-on management of financials – forecasting, budget control and analysis. 
• Understands drivers of financial performance and works closely with Team Account Director to deliver growth and profitability of assigned accounts. 
• Meets growth targets for the accounts through proactive initiatives. 

PEOPLE 

• Builds trusting relationships with clients with sufficient experience to independently interact with senior clients, and to solve problems or issues that arise with the client or agency. 
• Works well with all other departments and agencies within the Township. Knows when to push, and when to pull back. 
• Keeps the Team Account Director informed on any important information relating to clients’ business, campaigns, and team members. 
• An excellent communicator - must be able to accurately communicate information to and from the client whilst also providing sound advice. 
• Shares ideas across the Account Management group to help diversify and pick up new approaches. 
• Collaborative approach: involved in brainstorming, suggesting ideas and solutions. 

DESIRED SKILLS AND EXPERIENCE

• A thorough understanding of the marketing and communications disciplines, and how they contribute to the success of clients.
• Broad client management experience, from project management at brand manager level through to business planning at an intermediate level.
• Must be a good listener. Able to handle delicate issues with clients and colleagues alike. 
• Good presentation skills and the ability to “sell” ideas.
• Ensure projects are successfully managed to achieve a strong rate of return consistent with client expectations, budget, and allocated agency head hours. 
• Knows how to get buy-in, build rapport, navigate tough conversations, and leave everyone feeling like a winner.  
• Is curious and keeps up-to-date with client category trends, industry trends, the competitive landscape, and how they impact a client’s business.
• Possess a positive, enthusiastic attitude.
• Competent financial management skills.
• Is a team player and values the benefits of working collaboratively with colleagues.
• Tertiary qualified in a communications, marketing or sales discipline preferred.
• Ideally, 8+ years’ experience in a similar role.