Crisis & Issues Lead — Account Director

Weber Shandwick; New York, Northern (NY, KY); Hybrid; USD 115,000 - 135,000; Full time

Job summary

Weber Shandwick in New York seeks an Account Director to lead the Global Crisis and Issues Practice. You will guide crisis preparedness, risk assessment, and real-time response for major clients, coordinating cross-functional teams and senior advisors to protect reputation.

You will manage complex programs, mentor junior staff, and drive new business with a data-driven approach, leveraging AI and media analytics to shape strategy and outcomes.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and/or 5+ years of experience in an agency/consulting setting.
• Experience counseling clients and senior executives through crises and issues.
• Expertise in corporate reputation and brand protection through integrated comms programs.
• Familiarity with AI, data aggregation and digital analytics for actionable insights.
• Strong writing, analytical judgment and ability to work under deadline pressure.

Responsibilities

• Manage projects and client relationships as a key team member across high-profile crisis scenarios.
• Serve as day-to-day client contact, providing account support and triage for issues.
• Lead data-driven industry and topic analysis using AI, media monitoring and social analytics tools.
• Develop crisis plans, media strategies, reactive statements, trainings and talking points.
• Collaborate with senior leads to deliver industry-leading insights and client success.
• Mentor emerging talent and create growth opportunities within the practice.
• Provide regular counsel and liaise with global partners for market insights.
• Keep programs on schedule, meet deadlines and budget constraints.
• Support new business development and cross-practice collaboration.

Skills

Crisis communications

Issues management

Digital analytics

Writing skills

Public affairs

Quick decision making

Team leadership

Client counseling

Education

Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field

Job description

Weber Shandwick in New York seeks an Account Director to lead the Global Crisis and Issues Practice. You will guide crisis preparedness, risk assessment, and real-time response for major clients, coordinating cross-functional teams and senior advisors to protect reputation.

You will manage complex programs, mentor junior staff, and drive new business with a data-driven approach, leveraging AI and media analytics to shape strategy and outcomes.