Account Director

Burson; Johannesburg; Hybrid; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Burson is seeking an Account Director to manage client relationships and oversee integrated communication strategies in Johannesburg. The successful candidate will have a strong background in public relations and expertise in digital communications, driving results through innovation and leadership.

Benefits

Professional development programs

Mentorship opportunities

Vibrant and inclusive culture

Flexible working arrangements

Qualifications

• Proven experience in public relations or marketing.
• Track record of managing integrated campaigns across various audiences.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills, capable of building trust.

Responsibilities

• Manage client relationships while leading communication strategies.
• Inspire and mentor the team to achieve collaboration and growth.
• Identify new business opportunities and contribute to growth initiatives.

Skills

Client Service

Account Management

Digital PR

Social Media Strategy

Data-driven Communications

Leadership

Job description

Burson Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa

Join or sign in to find your next job

Join to apply for the Account Director role at Burson

Get AI-powered advice on this job and more exclusive features.

Who We Are

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.

When you work at Burson, you are part of a global community of lifelong learners who thrive at the edge of innovation.

Burson is part of WPP (LSE / NYSE : WPP), the creative transformation company.

For more information, visit our website and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.

More About The Role

Job Title: Account Director

Practice: Consumer and Brand

Reporting to: Managing Director

Location: Johannesburg, South Africa

As an Account Director, you will manage client relationships, oversee campaigns, and ensure exceptional results. You will act as a trusted advisor, providing strategic counsel and leading the development of integrated communication strategies aligned with business objectives in SA and across Africa.

This role requires strong leadership, commercial acumen, and expertise in corporate communications, stakeholder engagement, and campaign execution. You will inspire and mentor your team, fostering a culture of collaboration, accountability, and innovation while supporting their professional growth. You will also contribute to business growth by identifying new opportunities within existing accounts and participating in new business initiatives. Your ability to adapt to emerging trends like digital PR, social media, and data-driven insights will be critical in delivering innovative solutions with measurable results.

What You'll Do

• Build and maintain trusted client relationships, acting as their key advisor on public relations and reputation management.
• Develop and execute multi-channel communication strategies aligned with client goals and market dynamics.
• Provide strategic counsel to clients, offering clear, actionable solutions that deliver measurable results.
• Leverage data-driven insights and analytics to inform strategies and uncover new opportunities.
• Stay ahead of industry trends, including digital PR and social media, integrating them into campaigns.
• Inspire and lead a high-performing team, fostering collaboration and professional growth.
• Drive organic growth within existing accounts by identifying new opportunities and expanding relationships.
• Contribute to new business pitches, proposals, and RFP responses to support agency growth.

Experience That Contributes To Success

• Proven experience in client service and account management within public relations, communications, or marketing.
• Strong track record of managing and delivering integrated campaigns across corporate, B2B, and B2C audiences.
• Expertise in digital PR, social media strategy, and data-driven communications, with a focus on innovation.
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build trust with clients and stakeholders.
• Demonstrated leadership skills, including mentoring and guiding teams while fostering an inclusive culture.
• Commercially savvy, with experience in budgeting, forecasting, and driving profitability within accounts.
• Proactive in identifying new business opportunities and contributing to pitches and proposals.
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, dynamic environment, managing competing priorities with resilience.

You Belong At Burson

Our vision is for Burson to be the leading 'academy company' for creative communications professionals and emerging leaders. We provide a dynamic environment where ambitious colleagues can elevate their skills, expand networks, and produce the best solutions for leading brands.

Our commitment to your growth is reflected in our benefits and programs, including professional development, mentorship, a vibrant and inclusive culture, and packages to reward top talent. We invest in our people because their success is our success.

We believe diverse backgrounds and identities are essential for inspiring bold ideas, fostering dialogue, and driving innovation. Your unique perspective makes you a #BursonPerson, and it's how we deliver exceptional results together.

We adopt a hybrid work approach, with teams in the office around four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this during the interview process.

Application Process

Clicking the "Submit Application" button below will send your information to Burson. Please review our Recruitment Privacy Policy and, for California residents, the California Recruitment Privacy Notice.

Additional Information

Seniority level: Mid-Senior level

Employment type: Full-time

Job function: Sales and Business Development

Industries: Public Relations and Communications Services

Referrals can increase your chances of interviewing at Burson by 2x. Sign in to set job alerts for "Account Director" roles.

Experts contribute insights directly into articles, started with AI assistance.

J Ljbffr