Account Director

Job Description

Marathon Strategies is an independent communications and research firm that helps corporations, industry associations, coalitions, brands, and nonprofits realize their organizational goals and manage complex reputational challenges.

Marathon’s strength is rooted in developing high-quality, research-driven content at speed and then delivering it to target audiences to effectively shape public discussions of our clients and their issues. We create and deliver content across any platform, from traditional earned media to original videos, infographics, and paid media that can be digitally disseminated and shared on social media.

Our clients work with us because we are established but nimble in our approach, operating at speed but with intelligence and thoughtful counsel. Our team works at Marathon because we are intellectually stimulated by our coworkers, energized and challenged by our client work, and valued for the unique perspectives that we each bring to the firm. We are headquartered in New York City, with offices in Washington, D.C., and Albany, and team members around the country.

We are looking for an energetic Account Director with an entrepreneurial spirit to help drive and execute public affairs and communications initiatives for a diverse portfolio of corporate, nonprofit, and political clients. This position will be operating remotely but could be based out of the firm’s DC office.

The ideal candidate is a strong writer and a strategic thinker well-versed in politics and news who can help drive sophisticated public affairs and corporate communications campaigns. You will have worked in a public affairs or public relations agency, news organization, political campaign, or industry association. You will also have a network of relationships with national media, possess excellent writing skills, and be resourceful, enthusiastic, and able to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Hybrid Schedule:

Employees are expected to work onsite for a portion of the workweek, with the remaining days available for remote work. The required in-office days may vary based on team needs, business priorities, and role responsibilities. Employees must be available during core business hours (9 AM – 6 PM EST) and ensure a professional and productive work environment, whether onsite or remote. In-office days should be used to foster collaboration, attend meetings, and engage in team activities that benefit from in-person interaction. Any exceptions or adjustments to this policy require prior approval from management.

Account Director Responsibilities:

Client Management

• Acts as the key day-to-day point of contact and strategic lead for assigned clients.
• Implements strategic communication initiatives and programs.
• Develops client work plans and plays a critical role in the day-to-day management of timelines and deliverables.
• Prepares initial versions of internal and client communications, prep for client calls, meetings, etc., while providing regular updates to senior management.
• Understands the environment in which the client operates.

Copy Content Creation

• Develops a wide range of error-proof communication materials such as memos, strategies, PowerPoint presentations, press releases, talking points, opinion editorials, and speeches.
• Converts complex issues into compelling messages on behalf of clients.
• Creates original and creative angles to explain problems.
• Writes and edits digital materials, including websites, emails, ads, social media copy, and interactive materials.

Team Management

• Leads project management/workflow as it pertains to their clients.
• Creates a climate that inspires team members to exceed expectations.
• Manages up effectively.

New Business Development

• Contributes to new business proposals and presentations.
• Provides strategic direction and input.

Personal/Interpersonal and Work Ethic

• Relates well to people at all levels.
• Takes personal accountability for work.
• Committed to getting jobs done accurately and on time.
• Pays attention to detail and is well organized.

Job Requirements:

• 7-10 years of experience in a communications role in an in-house or consultancy environment.
• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent experience in a related field.
• Experience implementing strategic communication programs for companies in the private and public sectors.
• Possess a range of media relationships.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Developed or emerging business acumen.
• Creative, energetic, detail-oriented, and possesses an entrepreneurial spirit.

Application Instructions:

Please send your resume to [email protected] and include “PAC Job Posting” in the subject line.