Account Director, 84 PR

Summary
The Account Director is the key driver of client, business and team growth, with responsibility for leading and directing account teams on a day-to-day basis. As part of the management team, the AD will be seen as an ambassador for 84, building respect and support both internally and externally. They will be expected to have the ability to think ‘big picture’ in the development of long-term strategic plans to drive client business.

About us
At 84 our aim is simple – to work collaboratively with our clients to create individual communications plans that enhance their brands, individual being the key word here. We have a genuine passion for good food and the shared experiences around it. We are always ahead of trends and exploring different ideas. This means we are well placed to position rising stars and cement their place in the UK’s ever-changing food landscape, as well as support those who are more established.
Established in 2010 by Fiona St George and Clare Lattin, we’re a small team with more than twenty years of industry experience and an authentic interest in contemporary hospitality. Our background – across publishing, agencies and operating restaurants – gives our company a unique and focused understanding of the challenges in running a successful food business.
Following what has been a difficult time for the entire hospitality industry, our ambitions for 84 are aligned with our clients, to support, grow and enhance the role of communications within the business.

The Role

Reporting to: MD

Key tasks and responsibilities:

• Knowledge and evaluation of client objectives at both a tactical and strategic level, ensuring they are met in a structured and controlled manner throughout the contract period.
• Development of strong client relationship. Regular contact (at least three/four times per week) with the client on progress on the campaign, managing expectations. Take the lead role in internal and client meetings, contributing own ideas and ensuring meeting stays on track.
• Brief and oversee team on work required, managing roles across the team and ensuring professional development of team members.
• Strong media relations and press office skills. Cultivate and maintain relationships with senior media and influential professionals, managing contacts with key commentators, industry spokespeople and sector influencers.
• Production of strategies and press releases to finished standard, overseeing and signing off media lists, review agendas and contact reports to a finished standard.
• Preparation of annual client reviews and proposals for forthcoming year in collaboration with MD.
• Overseeing all promotional activity; development and management of brand partnerships.
• Offer counsel to senior clients, not being afraid to challenge and advise.
• Monitor time spent on allocated accounts vs budget and discuss with team, assessing profitability levels.
• Initiate, brief and lead brainstorms on relevant accounts and new business.
• In consultation with MD, research new business possibilities, supporting with new business proposals. Attend new business meetings and pitches, with strong and confident presentation skills.
• Specific areas of wider company management responsibility (to be agreed on individual basis).

Personal profile:

• A confident, highly motivated and authoritative director, with an eye for detail and good time management skills, capable of effectively managing a number of client relationships.
• A genuine passion and excitement for our industry, enjoys eating out, reading, listening to and being ‘in the know’ when it comes to all things food and restaurants.
• Confident communication internally and externally, a strong ambassador for 84, embracing the company’s mission and values.
• Well organised in own workspace and ability to hold an overview of work underway.

Professional experience / knowledge:·

• Minimum of five years’ experience in Food & Drink PR or related areas.
• Knowledge of client sectors and publications, with the ability to hold an informed discussion with a journalist on a client’s behalf if required.
• Programme delivery using social media

What we offer:

• Salary dependent on experience
• Flexible working
• 4.5 day working week – for every week worked, all full-time employees are entitled to a mental health half day
• An honest, interesting and engaging work environment
• Central London office location at Mortimer House – membership includes access to their gym studio with free classes, access to a rooftop bar)
• Work phone and laptop provided
• 22 days holiday + bank holidays + closed between Christmas and New Year
• Significant growth potential and advancement within our company, our ambitions for growth are clear
• The opportunity to work within an ethical, committed, and ambitious business in a kind and supportive team
• Regular team lunches at clients and non-client restaurant openings