Account Director - Energy & Industrials

Hill & Knowlton; London; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job description

Burson is the global communications leader built to create value for clients through reputation. With highly specialized teams, industry-leading technologies and breakthrough creative, we help brands and businesses redefine reputation as a competitive advantage so they can lead today and into the future. Burson is part of WPP (LSE/NYSE: WPP), the creative transformation company. Learn more at www.bursonglobal.com.

ABOUT BURSON

Burson is the global communications leader built to create value for clients through reputation. With highly specialised teams, industry-leading technologies and breakthrough creative, we help brands and businesses redefine reputation as a competitive advantage so they can lead today and into the future. Burson operates under WPP (NYSE: WPP). Learn more at www.bursonglobal.com.

ABOUT ENERGY & INDUSTRIALS AT BURSON

Transitioning to a sustainable economy in a way that is socially and economically fair is a defining issue of our age. It compels action from policymakers, researchers, businesses, and individuals all over the world.

In the Energy & Industrials team at Burson, we tell the stories of change-makers at the centre of this complex, global challenge. Our clients range from start-ups to some of the world’s most recognisable brands. They are spread across industries – energy, recycling, mobility and manufacturing – but with a common goal of achieving a lower-carbon, sustainable and more transparent world.

Our team combines deep sector knowledge with a breadth of communications disciplines, rooted in insight, to change behaviours, shape reputation and drive value.

We are proud of the work we do, supporting clients such as Baker Hughes, Hitachi, EnBW, E.ON and BSI. This role offers the opportunity to work within a fast-paced and dynamic team of 25+ who are passionate about the energy transition and keen to deliver integrated communications work, spanning corporate and B2B comms, public affairs, digital and social.

Burson is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Account Director, Media Relations to join our dynamic Energy & Industrials team. This role is critical in developing and executing strategic media relations campaigns that elevate our clients' brands, drive thought leadership, and achieve business objectives within the complex and rapidly evolving energy landscape. The ideal candidate will be an energy media expert with a proven track record of securing high-impact media coverage, building strong relationships with key journalists, and crafting compelling narratives that resonate with target audiences.

Responsibilities include:

• Develop and implement comprehensive media relations strategies aligned with client goals and objectives. Identify and leverage emerging trends and opportunities within the energy and industrials sectors to generate media interest.
• Create compelling press releases, media alerts, pitch letters, and other media materials that effectively communicate key messages and resonate with target journalists.
• Manage media outreach, including pitching stories, coordinating interviews, and providing background information to journalists. Build and maintain strong relationships with key energy media across national, trade, and online publications.
• Attend industry events and conferences to network with journalists and stay abreast of industry trends.

Client Management:

• Serve as the primary point of contact for clients and develop and maintain a deep understanding of their businesses, products, and services.
• Provide strategic counsel to clients on media relations opportunities and challenges.
• Collaborate effectively with other members of the Energy & Industrials team and the wider Burson agency.
• Act as a link between the Energy & Industrials team and our Media Relations centre of excellence. Share knowledge and best practices with colleagues to enhance the team's overall media relations capabilities.

Role Requirements:

• Deep understanding of and interest in the energy and industrials landscape.
• Proven ability to secure high-impact media coverage in national, trade, and online publications and established relationships with key journalists and influencers in the energy and industrials media landscape.
• Demonstrated ability to craft compelling and persuasive written materials for a variety of audiences.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Excellent interpersonal and presentation skills.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment.

DE&I

At Burson, diversity, equity and inclusion are not just values; they are strategic imperatives that fuel our future in an industry built on the art of understanding, connecting, and developing relationships. We believe that a diverse workforce is essential for inspiring bold ideas, fostering constructive dialogue and cultivating meaningful experiences that drive innovation and creativity. It also enables our agency to thrive and deliver brilliant work.