Description

We are seeking an experienced Public Relations Account Director (AD) with a strong background in consumer public relations, media strategy, brand communications, and client leadership to lead high-impact client portfolios. The AD will oversee one large account or multiple smaller accounts, providing strategic direction, senior counsel, and operational excellence, with support from the GAD or BUD.

The ideal candidate brings deep expertise in consumer communications, earned media, reputation management, media relations, integrated campaigns, reporting, and client leadership, and acts as the primary strategic escalation point for clients and internal teams.

Key Responsibilities

Client & Communications Leadership

• Lead and grow strategic client relationships, managing expectations, performance, and long-term account development.
• Act as a trusted advisor to clients, providing senior counsel on consumer communications, reputation management, issues management, and media engagement.
• Anticipate client needs and proactively develop communication strategies that drive business and brand objectives.
• Maintain a strong understanding of consumer, technology, lifestyle, and media landscapes to identify opportunities and mitigate risks.
• Serve as the senior escalation point for client issues and ensure exceptional service delivery.

Strategy, Campaigns & Delivery

• Develop and oversee integrated consumer PR and communications strategies aligned to client objectives.
• Lead the planning and execution of earned media campaigns, product launches, thought leadership initiatives, and brand storytelling programmes.
• Build and leverage strong relationships with journalists, editors, producers, and key media stakeholders.
• Oversee project plans, timelines, budgets, and reporting to ensure campaigns are delivered on time and exceed client expectations.
• Lead client presentations, contribute to new business pitches, and identify opportunities to grow existing accounts.
• Collaborate with digital, social, content, and influencer teams to deliver integrated communication programmes where required.

Team & Business Management

• Build, mentor, and manage Account Managers and Account Executives.
• Ensure strong project management, delegation, and cross-team collaboration.
• Take full responsibility for account profitability, billable utilisation, and SLA compliance.
• Oversee invoicing, budget tracking, forecasting, and financial reporting.
• Support talent development and contribute to a high-performance team culture.

Professional Conduct & Industry Leadership

• Represent the agency with professionalism across all client, media, and industry interactions.
• Escalate risks and challenges appropriately while proactively identifying solutions.
• Remain current on media trends, industry developments, and evolving communication channels.
• Continuously develop industry expertise and contribute thought leadership that strengthens both client outcomes and agency reputation.

Experience

• Significant experience in consumer public relations, communications, or agency environments.
• Strong media relations expertise and experience leading integrated PR campaigns.
• Proven client leadership and team management capability.
• Experience within consumer, technology, gaming, lifestyle, or entertainment brands is advantageous.