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Account Director

GSD&M · Austin, TX, USA ·

Job type:
Full Time

At GSD&M, we’re on a mission to build First & Only brands, meaning the first to do it and the only ones who can. We’re able to do this because we set a high bar for ourselves and our work. We care about what we put out in the world. We’re humans who like other humans. Our ideas make a difference. Shift culture. Create a smile. Inspire change. Initiate belly laughs. Deepen our understanding of the world and ourselves. We grow. We learn. We get better. We do it all over again. Because that’s what it takes to build and be First & Only.

  • REPORTS TO : Group Account Director or Managing Director
  • TRAVEL : 40–50%
  • FLSA STATUS : Exempt
  • SUPERVISORY RESPONSIBILITIES : Yes
  • LOCATION : Austin

Position Function

As an Account Director, you own your own business. More than any other position, you embody the entrepreneurial spirit that’s empowered GSD&M’s success from the very beginning. You are the Idea Team commander process champion, momentum owner, conscience of the team and the cultivator of great ideas and talent. Your partnership with the client is crucial in creating the trust that builds momentum for everything that follows. You create an environment that fosters bravery and optimistic problem‑solving.

Responsibilities

  • BE A FEARLESS LEADER: lead and manage, foster risk‑taking, set goals, demonstrate cross‑channel engagement, master managing up, down and sideways.
  • CHAMPION INTELLIGENT AND INSPIRING STRATEGY: lead insightful briefs and smart plans, and sell them.
  • FUEL CREATIVITY: run the wall, partner with creative directors, inspire ideas, and present them to clients.
  • BE A TRUSTED CLIENT PARTNER: build client business, own relationship, conduct regular rhythm meetings, track results, and ensure accountability.
  • OWN FINANCIAL RESPONSIBILITY: manage scope, staffing, P&L, and drive growth opportunities.
  • REMAIN CURIOUS: cultivate deep industry knowledge, educate the team, and stay current on emerging opportunities.
  • MAXIMIZE TALENT: train, guide, empower, foster safe risk‑taking, provide candid feedback, and diversify the team.
  • BE UNFLAPPABLE: set conversation tone, lead candid, and manage chaos calmly.
  • OWN THE MOMENTUM: drive processes, inspire action, nurture ideas to execution, and marshal resources for change.

Minimum Qualifications

  • BA required, MBA a plus; preferably concentrations in advertising, communications or marketing.
  • 8–10 years of agency experience (preferred) or related communication‑industry experience, including advertising, marketing, paid and social media, creative, production, research, direct marketing, finance, etc.
  • Strategic thought leadership.
  • Strong presentation and writing skills.
  • Strong listening and interpersonal skills.
  • Management and team‑building skills.
  • Highly organized and detail‑oriented in a production‑intensive environment.
  • Proficient in MS Office Suite or Mac equivalent.

At GSD&M, inclusion is our superpower. An inclusive environment encourages and empowers diverse perspectives, making the work better and the agency stronger. We are proud to be recognized by the Advertising Federation’s Mosaic Awards year after year for our efforts in diversity, equity and inclusion.

We consider ourselves lucky. Every day we wake up and get to build First & Only brands in an inclusive environment where everyone matters, all while enjoying generous benefits, plenty of time off, and opportunities for growth whether you’re just starting out or have been in the biz for a while.

GSD&M is an equal opportunities employer and will never favor or discriminate against anyone based on their age, gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation, disability, pregnancy or maternity, religion or belief, marriage or civil partnership, gender identity, expression, or realignment. If you require a medical or religious accommodation during the job application process, please reach out to for support.

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