Senior Account Manager (Strategy & Pitches)

DataFin Recruitment; Johannesburg; On-site; ZAR 500 000 - 700 000; Full time

Job summary

A Creative Agency in Johannesburg seeks a Senior Account Manager to head up Strategy & Pitches. You will own pitch opportunities, lead client interactions, and oversee Designers. Ideal candidates have 3–6 years' experience in marketing environments, superb pitch writing and communication skills, alongside strong independent decision-making abilities. The role involves crafting compelling proposals, ensuring quality outcomes, and managing client relationships effectively.

Qualifications

• 3–6+ years experience in an Agency, Media, Brand, or Marketing environment.
• Strong commercial and strategic thinking ability.
• Experience briefing and managing Designers.

Responsibilities

• Own inbound pitch opportunities and manage their execution.
• Write persuasive pitch narratives and proposals.
• Run client calls for briefings and feedback.
• Manage Designers and creative workflow.

Skills

Commercial and strategic thinking

Excellent written communication

Client management

Pitch writing skills

Job description

ENVIRONMENT:

A commercially‑mindful Senior Account Manager is sought by a Creative Agency in Joburg to head up Strategy & Pitches where you will own inbound pitch opportunities and client‑facing pitch execution. You will be expected to write strong pitch narratives, manage Designers, and represent the company confidently in client conversations. You will be trusted to respond to clients and shape pitch direction without needing constant approval. The ideal candidate will need 3‑6 years’ experience in an Agency, Media, Brand, or Marketing environment including briefing and managing Designers, have excellent written communication and pitch writing skills, and be comfortable running client calls and handling client feedback.

DUTIES:

Pitch Strategy & Writing

• Own inbound pitch opportunities from first inbound contact to proposal delivery.
• Write clear, persuasive pitch wording and campaign narratives.
• Translate client objectives into compelling, commercially sound proposals.
• Ensure every pitch clearly communicates why the brand should care.

Client Communication

• Handle pitch‑related client emails independently.
• Run client calls for briefings, clarifications, and feedback.
• Represent the company professionally and confidently.

Creative & Design Management

• Create clear, structured briefs for Designers.
• Manage Designers and creative workflows.
• Refine and quality‑control creative output.
• Ensure all work meets quality and brand standards before being sent out.

Ownership & Accountability

• Reduce Director involvement in pitch execution.
• Take ownership of pitch quality and turnaround times.
• Flag risks, gaps, or unclear briefs early.

REQUIREMENTS:

• 3–6+ Years experience in an Agency, Media, Brand, or Marketing environment.
• Strong commercial and strategic thinking ability.
• Excellent written communication and pitch writing skills.
• Comfortable running client calls and handling client feedback.
• Experience briefing and managing Designers.
• Able to work independently and make judgement calls.

ATTRIBUTES:

• Thinks beyond execution and understands business outcomes.
• Can write confidently and clearly for clients.
• Is comfortable taking responsibility and making decisions.
• Can push back to protect quality and effectiveness.