Account Director, Public Relations (Financial & Professional Services) Job at Hi

Account Director, Public Relations (Financial & Professional Services)

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 bring deep expertise in the financial and professional services landscape, translating complex business topics into compelling narratives that build credibility, trust, and market visibility.

In this role, Account Directors oversee 45 account teams, providing strategic leadership, senior client counsel, and mentorship. They ensure communications strategies are forward-thinking, results-driven, and aligned with client business objectives while guiding teams on positioning, storytelling, and visibility initiatives.

Account Directors also play a key role in agency growth, thought leadership, and fostering a collaborative, high-performing team culture. Strong writing, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of the financial and professional services media landscape are essential to success in this role.

Key Responsibilities

Client Strategy & Leadership

• 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 strong relationships with top-tier business, financial, and industry trade media.
• Drive thought leadership programs and creative 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 34 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.

The salary range for this position is $110,000 to $150,000, with the final offer based on a combination of factors, including education, relevant experience, skills, prior training, internal equity, and local geographic market data. This role also includes a competitive benefits package with medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) matching, generous paid time off, and additional perks designed to support your overall well-being and growth.