Account Manager

Overview The account manager is responsible for building and maintaining strong client relationships, while ensuring the successful delivery of campaigns. This role demands exceptional organisational and communication skills, a keen understanding of client needs, and the ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. The candidate must be able to represent the clients interest at the agency, and the agencys interest at the client, with utmost professionalism and a high level of maturity. Responsibilities Client relationship management Develop and nurture strong relationships with clients, acting as their primary point of contact Proactively identify client needs and exceed expectations Project management Oversee the entire project lifecycle, from brief development to campaign launch Create detailed project plans, establish timelines, and allocate resources effectively Campaign management Oversee the development and execution of advertising campaigns from inception to completion Coordinate with internal teams (creative, media, production) and external partners to ensure seamless project delivery Operational excellence Demonstrate strong organisational and project management skills to manage multiple projects simultaneously while maintaining attention to detail Proactively identify potential challenges and implement solutions to ensure timely delivery of materials Brief development Write clear, concise, and informative creative briefs that accurately communicate client objectives and target audience Time management Prioritise tasks and manage deadlines effectively to ensure projects are delivered on time and within budget Client communication Maintain open and transparent communication with clients, providing frequent updates on project progress and addressing concerns promptly Team collaboration Work closely with internal teams (creative, media, production) to ensure seamless project execution Cross-functional collaboration Work effectively with teams across various disciplines (creative, media, digital, PR) and with external agency partners to achieve campaign objectives Financial management Monitor project budgets, track expenses, and provide financial reports to clients Scope of duties Management of advertising campaigns across TV, radio, print, outdoor, BTL, digital, etc. Liaison with traffic and production departments, preparing timing plans, liaising with client, liaising with media planner and buyer, arranging meetings, etc. Obtaining client approval of all campaign elements and budgets at all stages of the development Confident management and accountability for presentations and key meetings: Status meetings, including compiling status reports and supplying to senior manager timeously for review prior to meeting Presentations, including contact reports following the meetings Competitor reviews Brand reviews Brand integration meetings (meetings with other client partners e.g., media, digital, etc.) Sourcing of material as per meetings agreed expectations Management of meetings with Client and Agency, ensuring that all parties needing to attend are notified timeously prior to meetings Accountability for all logistics pertaining to client meetings (Agendas, catering, contact reports, etc.) Understanding client expectations of the agency along with an understanding and respect of clients culture and business challenges Be seen to be a problem solver by the client by actively listening and responding Total familiarity of the Clients market, products and advertising policies Regular updating of senior management, informing them of any new developments that may arise on client business to maintain the agencys proactive culture Effective and efficient work ethic within the broader team Overall day-to-day management of the clients business Qualifications Bachelors degree in marketing, advertising, or a related field Experience Experience in advertising or related industry Desired Skills Strong project management and organisational skills Excellent written and verbal communication skills Ability to build rapport and trust with clients Strong attention to detail and problem-solving abilities Ability to communicate effectively, both verbally and in writing, and provide clear, comprehensive and inspiring briefs Ability to present to client and effectively sell creative work Ability to negotiate (timelines, budgets, creative executions, etc.) Ability to ‘strategically guide and manage the process Take clear, concise, focused client briefs Communicate in creative briefing and presentation sessions Contribute positively to the creative process, providing guidance regarding the creative work and workflow processes Understanding and appreciation of creative work and ideas Recognise and contribute towards proactive client opportunities Deep understanding of clients brand and their market Oversee marketing analysis (competitor activity, brand performance, etc.) Thorough understanding of the strategic tools and processes of the agency, as well as client terminology Broad understanding of the advertising and market industry, production and media (including digital media) processes Broad understanding of the advertising legal framework