PR Account Director - WhatJobs Direct

Our client, a prestigious agency in the Media & PR sector, is seeking an experienced and strategic PR Account Director to lead client relationships and drive impactful PR campaigns from their Centurion, Gauteng office. This leadership role is crucial for managing key accounts, developing overarching PR strategies, and ensuring client satisfaction. The ideal candidate will possess extensive experience in public relations, a strong understanding of the South African media landscape, and exceptional client management skills.

This hybrid position offers a dynamic work environment, combining collaborative time in our Centurion office with the flexibility of remote work. You will be instrumental in guiding client strategies, fostering strong media relationships, and leading a team to deliver outstanding results. We are looking for a seasoned professional ready to take on significant responsibility and contribute to the agency's continued success.

This role demands strategic vision and hands-on execution.

• Oversee and manage multiple client PR accounts, ensuring strategic alignment and successful execution of campaigns.
• Develop and present comprehensive PR strategies tailored to individual client objectives and target audiences.
• Cultivate and maintain strong, long-term relationships with key clients.
• Lead media relations efforts, including identifying opportunities, pitching stories, and securing high-profile coverage.
• Manage crisis communications plans and provide strategic counsel to clients during sensitive situations.
• Mentor and guide account teams, fostering professional development and high performance.
• Oversee budget management for client accounts, ensuring profitability and effective resource allocation.
• Monitor industry trends and competitive landscapes to provide proactive strategic advice.
• Ensure the highest standards of quality and creativity in all client deliverables.

• Minimum of 8 years of experience in public relations, with a significant portion in agency account management.
• Proven track record of successfully managing client relationships and delivering measurable PR results.
• In-depth knowledge of the South African media landscape and strong existing media contacts.
• Exceptional strategic thinking, planning, and problem-solving abilities.
• Excellent written, verbal, and presentation skills, with strong persuasive capabilities.
• Experience in crisis communications and reputation management is essential.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills.
• Bachelor's degree in Public Relations, Communications, Marketing, or a related field.
• Master's degree is a plus.
• Ability to thrive in a hybrid work environment, demonstrating strong collaboration and self-management skills.
• Experience working with clients in the Gauteng region is highly desirable.

Our client offers a highly competitive salary, a comprehensive benefits package including medical aid, a provident fund, and performance-based bonuses. The hybrid work model provides an excellent work-life balance, allowing for collaboration in our modern Centurion office and the flexibility of remote work. We are committed to employee growth, offering ample opportunities for professional development and continuous learning. The agency fosters a dynamic, creative, and supportive work culture.

Additional perks include generous annual leave and opportunities to work with a diverse and exciting client portfolio.