Public Relations Account Director (Enterprise, Financial Services, Security)

About us
Highwire is a modern strategic communications and digital marketing agency designed for disruptive companies. We work with high-growth technology companies and established brands looking to reinvent themselves.

At Highwire, we believe that storytelling fuels transformation. And the most impactful stories represent all voices and perspectives. As a values-driven agency, we foster an inclusive environment where everyone—regardless of age, race/ethnicity, size, shape, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, and different abilities—can feel safe, celebrated, and worthy.

We ensure every Highwire Walker has unique support to climb to success. Our commitment to diversity, inclusion, and belonging is permanent and foundational to our business and culture. We aspire to change our industry and build a better future for all.

Our people-first culture is driven by four core values:
• Team Empowerment
• Growth Mindset
• Inclusion Always
• Fierce Distinction

We’re looking for individuals with big ideas, strong opinions, and the energy to bring them to life. If you thrive in an environment that values personal accountability, high standards, and boundless motivation, this is the opportunity for you. Be part of our award-winning culture and contribute to an exciting and growing business where you can make a real impact.

We are based in San Francisco, with offices in New York and Chicago. We are open to hiring in the following states: California, Connecticut, Florida, Illinois, Massachusetts, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, Washington D.C.

Account Director Position
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 and ensuring 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 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.

Develop and maintain strong working relationships with clients who listen and value your advice.

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

Identify key messages and audiences and develop strategic communications plans.

Deliver projects and campaigns on time and on budget.

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

Proactively communicate regularly with clients on the status of deliverables and budget.

Identify relevant opportunities to secure organic growth and hit 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.

Participate fully in the execution of programs developed, including 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 memoranda, and general team correspondence; 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 developing goals for reports, deliver annual reviews, and quarterly check-ins.

Participate in new business processes including proactively identifying new targets, researching, and presenting at pitches.

Identify, attend, and encourage others to attend networking events.

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

Support teams and manage up and down.

Responsible use of flexible work policies.

Use Highwire social channels; write for Highwire blog.

Mentor junior staff to elevate development.

Self Development

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

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

Drive projects forward independently, reducing need for constant managerial check-ins. 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 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 – 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 delivering impactful PR campaigns from inception through 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 breaks for summer and winter holidays

Participate in Empower Hours on Fridays; team can log off by 3 pm

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

The duties delineated above will vary depending on the needs of each specific account and do not imply these are the only duties to be performed by this employee. This individual will be required to follow any other instructions and perform any other duties requested by their supervisors.

We are actively seeking candidates who possess a genuine passion for tech PR and are excited to expand our team. As we continue to grow our agency, we are proactively building a pipeline of exceptional individuals to connect with and consider for future opportunities.

If you are enthusiastic about the world of tech PR and eager to embark on a rewarding career in this field, we encourage you to start the conversation by applying today. We value your interest in our agency and look forward to hearing from you.

Apply now and let’s explore the possibilities together!

Job Alert
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