Account Director, Public Relations (Financial & Professional Services) San Franc

Overview

Account Directors on Highwire’s Financial & Professional Services teams lead high-impact, integrated communications programs for leading and emerging brands across banking, fintech, insurance, asset management, consulting, and other advisory-driven industries. They translate complex business topics into compelling narratives that build credibility, trust, and market visibility, with deep expertise in the financial and professional services landscape.

In this role, Account Directors oversee 4–5 account teams, providing strategic leadership, senior client counsel, and mentorship. They ensure communications strategies are forward-thinking, results-driven, and aligned with client objectives while guiding teams on positioning, storytelling, and visibility initiatives. They also contribute to agency growth, thought leadership, and fostering a collaborative, high-performing team culture. Strong writing and strategic thinking are essential.

Salary and benefits include a range of compensation and a comprehensive benefits package with medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) matching, generous paid time off, and additional well-being and growth perks.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead Financial or Professional Services clients across sectors including fintech, banking, wealth management, insurance, consulting, and advisory services.
• Develop integrated communications strategies that build brand credibility, awareness, and measurable business impact.
• Provide senior-level counsel on messaging, positioning, regulatory considerations, and media engagement strategies.
• Translate complex financial and advisory topics into compelling, business-relevant narratives.
• Serve as the senior client lead, ensuring deliverables consistently meet or exceed expectations.
• Identify opportunities for organic growth within existing client relationships.
• Partner with clients on executive visibility, thought leadership, and market-driven storytelling initiatives.
• Manage budgets, forecast hours, and allocate resources efficiently across teams.

Media Relations

• Build and maintain relationships with top-tier business, financial, and industry trade media.
• Drive thought leadership programs and storytelling that elevate client visibility.
• Oversee data-driven and trend-based pitching strategies to secure meaningful coverage in financial and business press.
• Leverage digital and social channels to amplify earned media reach and audience engagement.
• Stay ahead of financial, economic, and industry trends to provide proactive strategic recommendations.

Agency Operations & Leadership

• Manage 3–4 direct reports, providing mentorship, guidance, and performance feedback.
• Support new business initiatives from research and ideation through pitch presentation.
• Contribute to agency marketing initiatives including award submissions, case studies, and thought leadership content.
• Champion Highwire’s culture of inclusion, empowerment, and collaboration.
• Represent Highwire at Financial & Professional Services industry events, conferences, and networking opportunities.

Team Development

• Mentor account teams to ensure clarity on roles, client objectives, and strategic priorities.
• Foster a collaborative environment that supports professional growth and creative thinking.
• Lead by example, maintaining high standards of professionalism, accountability, and client service.

Success Factors

• 7+ years of PR or communications experience in an agency setting.
• Deep experience working with Financial or Professional Services clients, including fintech, banking, insurance, asset management, or consulting firms.
• Proven success developing and executing integrated communications programs that deliver measurable business impact.
• Strong understanding of the financial, business, and trade media landscape.
• Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills.
• Demonstrated strategic leadership and client management experience.
• Established relationships with financial and business media.
• Experience managing and mentoring high-performing teams.
• Strong business acumen with the ability to identify growth opportunities.
• Creative, collaborative, and confident communicator who thrives in a fast-paced environment.

About Highwire

Highwire is a strategic marketing communications agency at the intersection of innovation and industry. We partner with ambitious companies and established brands to navigate complexity, lead markets, and grow with purpose. Our integrated expertise spans strategic communications, creative, and insights across B2B technology, healthcare, cybersecurity, energy and sustainability, and professional and financial services.

We believe storytelling fuels transformation and strive for an inclusive environment where everyone can feel safe, celebrated, and valued. Our commitment to diversity, inclusion and belonging is foundational to our business and culture.

We offer a people-first culture with meaningful benefits and growth opportunities, including a flexible hybrid work model, generous vacation, 401(k) with employer matching, comprehensive health coverage, paid parental leave, professional development support, and more.

Hybrid/Remote Working

Hybrid: Candidates located near New York, NY or San Francisco, CA offices follow a hybrid schedule with two in-office days per week. Remote: Full-time remote roles are available in select states. We require applicants to reside in listed locations at the time of hire.

Join the Highwire team

If you’re inspired by the opportunity to shape meaningful stories and grow with a team that values innovation, accountability, and inclusion, apply below to start the conversation.