Account Director (Bilingual)

Publicis Groupe; Toronto; Hybrid; CAD 60,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player is seeking a bilingual Account Director with a strong retail background to lead strategic initiatives. In this dynamic role, you will define strategies, manage client relationships, and inspire high-performing teams. The company fosters a culture of innovation and excellence, offering a collaborative environment where you can thrive and grow. If you are passionate about guiding local brands through creative thinking and strategy, this opportunity is perfect for you.

Qualifications

• 1-2 years of relevant experience in account management within an advertising agency.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to motivate high-performing teams.

Responsibilities

• Define annual strategy with agency goals and client expectations.
• Oversee end-to-end account management with operational excellence.
• Maintain strong relationships with clients and manage crises effectively.

Skills

Bilingual (English and French)

Account Management

Strategic Thinking

Leadership

Communication

Analytical Skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Marketing or related field

Job description

Company description

Publicis is an omni-channel communications agency with over 600 employees across our Canadian operations.The office is the largest in our industry in Canada and boasts talent across various disciplines of marketing and advertising expertise. Publicis carries a balanced split of Canadian, U.S. and Global clients for which we are Agency of Record. Publicis supports a range of D&I actions through our Driving Change team as well as giving back to the community through a long-standing participation in the Out of the Cold Program. With a strong, active and familial culture, Pub United is the agency’s social club, hosting events as wide reaching as Curling, Trivia Nights and more.

Overview

We’re not afraid of failure because to us, it doesn’t exist. We try new things, and if the results don’t work out, we learn and try again. In line with this mindset, we’re looking for responsible individuals who are eager to grow, thrive, and guide local brands through creative thinking and strategy.

If you’re a recognized team player with strategic thinking skills and the ability to build trust with both internal partners and clients, we’re likely a perfect match.

We are looking for a bilingual Account Director with a strong retail background.

Responsibilities

Strategy & Creative Development

• Define and align annual strategy with agency goals and client expectations.
• Analyze market trends and anticipate shifts to adapt strategies and seize emerging opportunities.
• Continuously challenge and refine processes to maximize organizational efficiency on managed accounts.
• Influence business decisions through a clear vision and strong strategic recommendations.

Account Management

• Oversee end-to-end account management with high levels of fluidity, control, and operational excellence.
• Identify and develop new business opportunities aligned with the agency’s overall strategic vision.
• Ensure profitability and optimize resource use in accordance with the company’s financial targets.
• Strengthen strategic partnerships and industry collaborations.

Team Leadership & Development

• Lead, inspire, and motivate teams through constructive and engaging leadership.
• Contribute to internal talent development and team skill growth.
• Foster a culture of excellence, innovation, and cross-functional collaboration.
• Make strategic decisions with both short- and long-term organizational impact in mind.

Client Relations & Expertise

• Maintain strong, high-trust relationships with clients, ensuring proactive and effective communication.
• Navigate and manage client crises with tailored solutions in collaboration with account leads.
• Serve as a recognized strategic advisor, providing expertise to both clients and internal teams.

Qualifications

• Must be perfectly bilingual, with a strong understanding of Québec culture and its nuances in tone and register.
• 1-2 years of relevant experience in a similar role
• Proven experience in national account management and project leadership within an advertising agency.
• Proven leadership skills with the ability to motivate and grow high-performing teams
• Expertise in developing creative and commercial strategies
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to manage complex, high-level client relationships
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities with a long-term strategic outlook
• Ability to lead and collaborate with a national team.

Additional information

Publicis Canada is committed to building a diverse workforce representative of our community. We encourage and are pleased to consider all qualified candidates, without regard to race, colour, citizenship, religion, sex, marital / family status, sexual orientation, gender identity, aboriginal status, age, disability or persons who may require an accommodation, to apply. If you require a specific accommodation please contact Human Resources.