Account Director - Technology Practice

Waggener Edstrom Worldwide (WE) is a global, integrated communications agency. For the past 25 years, the independently owned firm has developed strategic communications programs for innovative and world-changing clients, working to influence markets, inspire people and improve lives. In 2008, WE was named European Technology Agency of the Year, and in 2006 was named Best Large Agency to Work For by the Holmes Report. WE has also earned numerous honors for its outstanding work on behalf of clients, its exceptional people, and its innovation in communications. The agency has more than 800 employees in 16 offices around the world, and its Global Alliance program expands the agency’s reach to 13 additional international markets. WE offers six global practices: Corporate Communications, Consumer Marketing, Environment, Healthcare, Public Affairs and Technology.

Waggener Edstrom Worldwide is looking for an Account Director to help lead and grow our Dallas, TX office. This is an opportunity for a leader with an entrepreneurial spirit to help us engage with top organizations involved in the pursuit of innovation across multiple industries. This role will focus on account/client management, leadership of the office, and future business development. New business to us is not just about bringing in new business – it’s about passion! At Waggener Edstrom Worldwide we identify those organizations that are leading the charge in innovation, who understand the value and power of PR, and who strive to change the way we work and live every day. You will help us achieve this goal in one of our most spirited, entrepreneurial and exciting offices within Waggener Edstrom Worldwide.

Responsibilities:

· Drive Strategic planning process.

· Provide strategic communications counsel to executive-level clients.

· Manage client relationships and client satisfaction. When called for, manage crisis communications.

· Ensure team’s fiscal responsibility, managing budgets and resources efficiently.

· Manage and maintain relationships with senior influentials and business press.

· Participate in new business efforts/presentations in the Dallas area.

· Proactively craft and place stories, shape broad industry themes and story lines, and negotiate client inclusion in coverage.

· Coach team and broader account staff on agency “best practices� in engaging with influentials on story placement and packaging.

· Lead agency learning forums to share knowledge and increase leadership experience.

· Coach, mentor and motivate staff.

· Lead and supervise broad team, as well as manage direct reports.

· Manage a wide variety of clients. Juggle multiple priorities and incoming requests.

· Train and identify learning opportunities for team members on media relations, client service, and strategy and agency business.

Qualifications:

Education:

· Bachelors degree or above in communications, journalism or related field preferred. Preferred Experience:

· At least 9 years experience in PR, preferably in an agency and/or within the high tech industry providing public relations consulting service to high tech and consumer clients. 8-10 years experience preferred.

· Established strong editorial relationships with business journalists, technology trade and consumer media, and industry/market analysts.

· Proven track record of strategic campaign development.

· Minimum of 6 years individual and team management experience, including experience developing a team. 6-8 years preferred.

· Minimum of 5 years PR management, crisis management, and execution experience, including developing plans, client management, launch strategies, product positioning, and pitching stories to the media, negotiation, budget responsibility, media training, messaging and developing creative tactical ideas. 6-8 years preferred.

· Must have a proven track record for developing new business.

· Drive budget and resource forecasting.

· Strong knowledge of PR agency business and financial model.

· Demonstrated creative and strategic mindset.

· Strong writing skills. Worked under aggressive deadlines.

· Written and developed press materials.

· International experience.

How to Apply:Waggener Edstrom Worldwide believes its people are its greatest asset. The company offers outstanding professional development and competitive compensation and benefits.  Please submit your resume (in a Word document only please) via our website at www.WaggenerEdstrom.com/careers  Job 3531