Account Director - Brands (Public Relations)

About this job

As an Account Director for Brands at Burson in Gurugram, you will lead client servicing and integrated communication programs within the Brands, Sports & Entertainment practice. Your normal day involves managing and motivating account teams, driving revenue targets, delivering strategic counsel for top-tier lifestyle, FMCG, and hospitality brands, and building long-term client relationships. Part of the global WPP network, Burson specializes in reputation management and strategic communications, helping brands shape consumer behavior and influence culture. You will oversee client portfolios, champion the integration of Generative AI tools in communication plans, forge high-level media relationships, drive new business development, and handle financial management tasks like budgeting and forecasting. Additionally, you will mentor junior staff, foster an inclusive team culture, and collaborate with digital and network resources to execute innovative, results-driven campaigns that enhance client reputation as a competitive advantage.

Responsibilities

• Manage and profitably grow a significant portfolio of client accounts within the brands, sports, and entertainment sector.
• Provide expert strategic counsel and act as a trusted advisor to clients on industry trends, media, and reputation management.
• Lead and motivate account teams to deliver creative integrated communication programs and high-level media outcomes.
• Champion the strategic use of Generative AI tools across planning, ideation, content creation, and operations.
• Drive new business development by identifying organic growth opportunities and leading proposal and pitch processes.
• Coach, mentor, and support the career development of junior staff members and account teams.
• Oversee financial management including revenue targets, budget tracking, annual forecasting, and scope of work creation.

Requirements

• 8 to 10 years of experience in strategic communications, media relations, and content management.
• Extensive experience managing diverse clients across sectors such as FMCG, Food & Beverage, Lifestyle, Hospitality, and Travel.
• Strong familiarity with applying Generative AI tools across communication programs for research, planning, and efficiency.
• Demonstrated track record of driving agency growth through new business development and leading pitch processes.
• Postgraduate degree in any discipline or a professional qualification in public relations or marketing communications.
• Strong ability to manage revenue targets and oversee profitable client accounts.

Good to have

• Existing relationships with key influencers, community contacts, and top-tier media professionals.
• Experience utilizing proprietary agency tools such as BAV, Decipher, and Creative Studio.

Who should apply

This role suits experienced communications professionals with a strong background in public relations, media relations, and client servicing within sectors like FMCG, lifestyle, and hospitality. Ideal candidates possess a proven track record in driving agency growth, securing new business, and managing financial targets. Applicants must have leadership experience in mentoring teams and a strong understanding of modern communication technologies, including Generative AI. This position is not suitable for freshers.

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