Strategic Account Director

Purpose: The Strategic Account Director is responsible for leading the relationship with Unilever in their vertical i.e., the Senior Account Director is the key client contact for their vertical and will thus be accountable for ensuring a successful client relationship. In addition, the role is responsible for directing & guiding a team to deliver at a high quality on client deliverables. He/she will develop and manage the human and financial resources of their vertical.

Client Relationship Management:

- Build and nurture strong, trusted relationships with key stakeholders at Unilever, including brand managers, media managers, and senior leadership.
- Develop a deep understanding of Unilever’s business objectives, marketing goals, and brand strategies.
- Proactively identify opportunities to expand the scope of services provided to Unilever, driving incremental revenue and solidifying the agency’s value.
- Act as a strategic advisor and consultant, providing insights, recommendations, and thought leadership to guide Unilever’s marketing efforts.
- Ensure seamless communication and collaboration between Unilever and internal agency teams, fostering a strong and productive partnership.
- Effectively manage client expectations, addressing concerns promptly, and consistently exceeding expectations.
- Lead, grow, and win the client over by providing and encouraging strategic, inspiring, and innovative solutions.
- Be the final escalation point of contact for client queries in the vertical.
- Drive the client and agency relationship and delivery, translating vision and innovative strategies to tangible action plans and operational success.
- Track and course-correct service and operations delivery in the vertical.

Strategy & Execution:

- Oversee the development and execution of innovative and impactful media strategies that align with Unilever’s marketing objectives and target audience.
- Collaborate closely with internal teams (strategy, planning, buying, digital, social, etc.) to ensure seamless campaign implementation and delivery.
- Oversee campaign budgets, ensuring efficient allocation of resources and meticulous tracking of expenditures.
- Advise & oversee the staffing, resource, and process decisions when it comes to the resources servicing the client in the vertical.

Team Leadership & Development:

- Providing clear direction and guidance to your team, fostering a collaborative and high-performing environment.
- Mentor and develop team members, provide opportunities for growth, and recognize achievements.
- Manage team workload and resources, ensuring projects are delivered on time, within budget, and to the highest standards.
- Cultivate a positive and supportive team culture that encourages innovation, accountability, and a passion for delivering exceptional client service.
- Provide coaching, mentorship or training when required in order to ensure that each individual is performing at the required standard.
- Assist your team with challenges they are facing and, advise and train them when required.

Financial Management & Reporting:

- Oversee client budgets, ensuring accurate forecasting, tracking, and reporting of all campaign expenditures.
- Identify and pursue opportunities for incremental revenue, maximizing profitability while delivering exceptional value to Unilever.
- Negotiate favorable rates and contracts with media vendors, securing the most cost-effective solutions for Unilever.
- Provide regular financial reports to both Unilever and internal stakeholders, demonstrating a clear understanding of campaign ROI and budget performance.
- Be cognizant of and mitigate any financial risks for the client and business within the vertical.
- Minimum 7 years of proven experience as a Client Lead or Account Director in a media agency environment, with a strong track record of managing large, complex accounts.
- Exceptional client relationship management skills
- Deep understanding of the media landscape, including traditional and digital channels, emerging technologies, and audience measurement tools.
- Strategic thinking and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent communication, presentation, and negotiation skills, with the ability to clearly articulate ideas, influence stakeholders, and secure favorable outcomes.
- Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to motivate, inspire, and guide high-performing teams.
- Skilled at handling fast-paced, short lead-time client requests
- Adept at high-level client presentations
- Proficient using Microsoft office tools suite (Excel, powerpoint, outlook)