Client-First Account Director, Earned Media

Weber Shandwick; Chicago (IL); Hybrid; USD 95,000 - 125,000; Full time

Job summary

Weber Shandwick in Chicago is seeking a seasoned Account Director to lead integrated communications and earned media programs for corporate, advocacy, and public sector clients. This role sits on our Corporate team, delivering trusted counsel and high‑impact campaigns in a fast-paced environment.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in PR, strong media relations, and a proven ability to guide senior leaders. Based in Chicago on a hybrid schedule, you’ll lead cross-functional teams and shape stories

Qualifications

• 7+ years of experience in communications and PR
• Experience leading integrated projects across disciplines
• Strong earned media strategy and media relations experience
• Experience providing counsel to senior leaders
• Bachelor’s degree required

Responsibilities

• Shape and execute integrated communications strategies in partnership with agency and client teams
• Counsel and interact effectively with clients and leaders at client organizations
• Build and maintain excellent relationships with top-tier media across business, national/local broadcast, multicultural and lifestyle verticals
• Stay immersed in the media and cultural landscape and emerging issues
• Approach client work with curiosity and understand the brand, competitors and industry context
• Craft compelling, newsworthy stories that drive earned coverage
• Develop strategic, earned-first plans and write pitches, press releases and messaging documents
• Deliver high-caliber work with a client-first mindset and attention to detail
• Collaborate with agency and inter-agency partners to drive alignment on large-scale campaigns
• Mentor and develop junior team members through hands-on guidance
• Cultivate and participate in new business opportunities and pitches

Skills

Earned media strategy

Media relations

Counsel senior leaders

Project leadership

Education

Bachelor's degree

Job description

Weber Shandwick in Chicago is seeking a seasoned Account Director to lead integrated communications and earned media programs for corporate, advocacy, and public sector clients. This role sits on our Corporate team, delivering trusted counsel and high‑impact campaigns in a fast-paced environment.

The ideal candidate has 7+ years in PR, strong media relations, and a proven ability to guide senior leaders. Based in Chicago on a hybrid schedule, you’ll lead cross-functional teams and shape stories