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Digital Account Director, Corporate Affairs

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States

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 bursonglobal.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.

MORE ABOUT THE ROLE:  

Burson's Corporate Affairs practice seeks an experienced Account Director to lead client engagements and drive digital communications initiatives. This individual will serve as a trusted advisor to senior client contacts, providing expert counsel on complex reputational challenges and opportunities.

The Corporate Affairs team at Burson is a leading force in reputation management. The digital team complements this practice by incorporating deep industry expertise, cutting-edge data and analytics, compelling social storytelling, and digital fluency to achieve client objectives. We foster a collaborative and supportive environment that values innovation, proactive problem-solving, and a commitment to excellence.

Managing a team, the Account Director will oversee a portfolio of accounts across sectors including Technology, Healthcare, Financial Services and Energy through the reputation lens of Corporate Communications and Public Affairs. This role demands a deep understanding of reputation and issues management, a proven ability to develop and execute impactful digital communication strategies, and a passion for delivering measurable results.

This position can be based in Washington DC, New York, Chicago and Pittsburgh.

WHAT YOU WILL DO:

  • Lead Client Engagements: Serve as a key strategic advisor to senior client contacts, building strong relationships and understanding their business and communications objectives. Provide expert counsel on digital best practices and solutions.
  • Develop & Execute Strategies: Lead the development and execution of integrated communication strategies that address complex reputational challenges and opportunities. Oversee all aspects of program implementation, ensuring alignment with client goals and Burson's quality standards.
  • Team Leadership & Mentorship: Manage and mentor a team, providing guidance, support, and professional development opportunities. Foster a collaborative and high-performing team environment.
  • Business Development: Participate in the pursuit of new business opportunities, contributing to the growth of the Corporate Affairs practice. Develop pitch research and presentations, showcasing Burson's expertise and capabilities.
  • Financial Management: Oversee account budgets and profitability, ensuring projects are delivered on time and within budget. Develop accurate forecasts and track key performance indicators.
  • Thought Leadership: Contribute to the thought leadership of the Corporate Affairs practice by staying abreast of digital trends, sharing insights with clients and colleagues, and participating in industry events.
  • Oversee Research & Analysis: Guide the team in conducting thorough research and analysis, including stakeholder mapping, social audits, and reputational risk assessments, to inform strategic planning.
  • Champion Digital & Social Strategies: Oversee the development and implementation of digital and social media strategies that enhance client reputation and achieve communication objectives.

EXPERIENCE THAT CONTRIBUTES TO SUCCESS:

  • 8 years of experience in corporate communications, public affairs, or a related field, with significant agency experience highly preferred.
  • Deep understanding of reputation management principles and best practices, including crisis communications, stakeholder engagement, and executive positioning.
  • Proven ability to develop and execute integrated communication strategies that deliver measurable results.
  • Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate and inspire others.
  • Excellent client relationship management skills, with the ability to build trust and rapport with senior executives.
  • Strong business acumen and experience in developing and managing budgets.
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and concisely.
  • Proactive, solutions-oriented, and results-driven.
  • A team player with a positive attitude and a passion for excellence.
  • A native on digital and social media platforms, including LinkedIn and TikTok.
  • Experience with Corporate Healthcare a plus.

The base salary for this position at the time of this posting may range from $60,000 to $140,000. Individual compensation varies based on job-related factors, including location, business needs, level of responsibility, experience, and qualifications. We offer a competitive benefits package; click here for more details: https://mybenefits.wpp.com/public/welcome  

Our careers page is designed to be accessible to everyone. If you need any specific accommodations during the application process, feel free to reach out to us at appaccommodations@bursonglobal.com. Please note that this email is for applicants needing special assistance, so we may not be able to reply to other inquiries. 

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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 come to elevate their skills, expand their networks, and ultimately, produce the best solutions for today’s leading brands. Our commitment to your growth is reflected in our robust benefits and people programs, which include professional development opportunities, mentorship programs with industry leaders, a vibrant and inclusive company culture fostering collaboration and innovation and packages designed to reward and retain top talent. We invest in our people because we believe their success is our success.

At Burson, we’re an agency of learn-it-alls. We recognize that the things we do best, creativity and communications, require a level of nuanced understanding. That’s why it’s imperative for us to hire extraordinarily talented people of all backgrounds and identities. Without that we can’t do the essential work of inspiring bold ideas, fostering constructive dialogue, cultivating meaningful experiences, and driving innovation and creativity for our partners. Your unique point of view—your talent—is what makes you a #BursonPerson, and it’s how we deliver exceptional results for our clients, together.

We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we’ve adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office around four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.

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