Account Director, Client Experience

Weber Shandwick is more than a leading global PR agency – we’re an engagement agency and we’re working in and around the cutting edge of the new media landscape. We’re storytellers, content creators, and we engage people IN the story. Our success is built on a deep commitment to client service and to our people. We embrace creativity and collaboration, and we engage stakeholders in new and creative ways to build brands and reputations. Account Director, Client Experience We’re looking for a passionate, dynamic, and earned-savvy Account Director to join our team, focusing on food and beverage brands. This role will center on crafting and executing high-impact, earned-driven integrated activations that blend brand storytelling with the power of food culture. You will lead work tied to emerging and legacy brands, bringing bold, creative ideas, all while managing high‑profile client relationships and collaborations across teams and agencies. You’ll be responsible for spearheading creative, award‑worthy campaigns that resonate with key audiences, ensuring our clients capture cultural relevance and media attention. Your remit includes client strategy, operations, and activation oversight, with opportunities to leverage celebrity/influencer endorsements and marquee events. The right candidate will play a major role in talent development and building team culture. Additional responsibilities include aligning programs and experiences with client goals, allocating agency resources to match budgets, managing a variety of work streams, providing strategic counsel to teams, and ensuring timely delivery of remarkable work. You will also be instrumental in developing new business opportunities, media relations strategies, analytics insights, and creative storytelling concepts. Ideally, you bring prior experience in PR, food and beverage and lifestyle industries. What We Are Looking For Ability to turn dynamic in‑culture ideas into actionable, high‑impact campaigns Capacity to lead and inspire account teams while owning key projects Skilled in conflict resolution and the ability to manage high‑pressure environments with grace Expertise in motivating and mobilizing teams to meet deadlines and exceed expectations Strong leadership skills combined with a collaborative mindset and ability to work independently or as part of an integrated team Exceptional verbal and written communication skills Financial acumen to manage budgets and allocate resources effectively Proven ability to successfully manage complex, multi‑dimensional projects within set parameters and deadlines Reliable judgment when working with clients, stakeholders, and vendors Genuine passion for food and beverage space, with an ability to anticipate both client and team needs in this fast‑paced, ever‑evolving space Acute attention to detail in ensuring quality, relevance, and creativity in all work delivered Confidence instilled in clients, colleagues, and collaborators that drives trust and excitement Basic Qualifications 6‑8+ years of experience in a PR or Communications role, preferably with a large focus on food and beverage marketing/PR Demonstrated expertise in Integrated Media Strategy and Media Relations Bachelor’s Degree in Communications, Journalism, Marketing, Business Management, or a related field Proven experience working on large‑scale activations, sponsorships, or campaigns that integrate earned, owned, and paid media strategies A deep understanding of the media landscape, and cultural trends within the industry Salary range: $95,000 USD – $125,000 USD Weber Shandwick is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. Weber Shandwick recruits qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, ethnic or national origin, protected veteran status, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status or citizenship status. Account Director, Crisis and Issues Communications The Weber Shandwick New York office is seeking an Account Director in New York to join its Global Crisis and Issues Practice. Weber Shandwick’s Global and Issues Crisis team, part of the Weber Advisory group, helps leading organizations across the world both manage breaking negative issues and events affecting reputation and develop the internal culture and infrastructure needed to predict, prepare, and navigate them effectively. From conspiracy theories, environmental incidents and multinational bankruptcies to executive controversies and sweeping product recalls to high‑profile litigation and fake news, we live at the front lines of media, culture, and conversation. Whether it is a program affecting internal stakeholders or an external effort to protect or defend an organization’s reputation, we work together with colleagues from around the country and globe daily, supplying crisis counsel to clients across industries and sectors, making deep curiosity a requisite for this position. Candidate Qualities We are looking for a change agent to help us grow our Global Crisis and Issues Practice and support a wide array of high‑profile clients with crisis preparedness, reputation management and live crisis/issues counsel and support. You should have extensive crisis communications and issues management experience, preferably across multiple industries and across the spectrum of public and private companies. You will play an important role on our team, leading a broad range of projects, developing new business opportunities, and helping to mentor and grow the skill sets of emerging talent in our practice. You should be digital analytics‑savvy, have strong writing skills and thrive in a fast‑paced, deadline‑oriented environment. Previous agency experience is a must. An additional plus: experience working in public affairs or media role. Our Team Our team is a group of smart, analytical and hardworking people who care deeply about helping lead our clients through a crisis to make a positive impact on society. We are on the front lines of some of the biggest, most complex issues – and the nature of our work requires an ability and eagerness to juggle multiple responsibilities and work on multi‑office client teams. You will have the opportunity to play a leading role in driving both ongoing client engagements and discrete projects. What You Will Be Doing Manage projects and client relationships as key team member to navigate a range of complex, high‑profile corporate issues / crisis communications situations (i.e., cybersecurity issues, product safety issues and recalls, executive leadership changes, natural disaster response, culture change, societal issues, IPOs etc.) Serve as the day‑to‑day client contact – providing account support and counsel, flagging, triaging, and directly managing client issues as they arise. Lead data‑driven industry and topic analysis to inform business strategy and issues management approach, including leveraging AI, media monitoring and social analysis tools. Develop and draft crisis plans, media strategies, reactive media statements, media trainings, talking points, FAQs, memos, crisis simulations and other deliverables as needed. Work directly with senior team leads and other practice group leaders to achieve client success and deliver industry‑leading perspectives on topical issues. Train and motivate emerging talent and help create opportunities for their growth and development. Provide regular counsel to clients and colleagues and liaise with global partners to provide global market insights. Keep client programs on schedule and ensure all deadlines are met within budget parameters. Participate in new business development for the team and collaborate among practice areas at the agency in support of broader new business pitches that include a crisis and issues component. Qualifications Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field and/or 5+ years of relevant experience in an agency/strategic consulting firm, political campaign, or similar setting. Experience directly counseling clients/senior ranking executives through a broad range of crises, issues and special situations. Experience with corporate reputation, brand management and protection through integrated communications programs. Expertise with the latest digital management, trends and strategy, tools, and analytics and ability to turn insights into actionable recommendations. Familiarity with AI, next‑gen programs and data aggregation to inform strategy. Thrives under pressure and can handle multiple projects in a demanding, deadline‑oriented environment, including live crisis situations that may require significant working hours. Exercises exceptional judgment when working with clients, team members, and vendors. Communicates clearly, analytically, and persuasively both orally and in writing. Pays close attention to detail and quality of work product. Adept at solving problems and resolving conflicts. Capable of mobilizing and motivating teams, anticipating needs, and instilling confidence. Experience delivering media and crisis training. Solid understanding of markets and issues affecting the financial and reputational well‑being of companies. About the Global Crisis and Issues Practice Weber Shandwick’s Global Crisis and Issues Practice helps leading organizations both manage breaking negative issues and events affecting reputation and develop the internal culture and infrastructure needed to anticipate, prepare and navigate them effectively. From cyberattacks, environmental protests, high‑profile litigation and misinformation defense to sweeping product recalls, multinational bankruptcies and executive controversies, we live at the intersection of business, media, policy, culture and society. Salary range: $115,000 USD – $135,000 USD Weber Shandwick is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. Weber Shandwick recruits qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, ethnic or national origin, protected veteran status, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status or citizenship status. Associate, Crisis Communications The Weber Shandwick New York office is seeking an Associate in New York to join its Global Crisis and Issues Practice. The Global Crisis and Issues team, part of the Weber Advisory group, helps leading organizations across the world both manage breaking negative issues and events affecting reputation and develop the internal culture and infrastructure needed to predict, prepare, and navigate them effectively. From conspiracy theories, environmental incidents and multinational bankruptcies to executive controversies and sweeping product recalls to high‑profile litigation and fake news, we live at the front lines of media, culture, and conversation. Whether it is a program affecting internal stakeholders or an external effort to protect or defend an organization’s reputation, we work together with colleagues from around the country and globe daily, supplying crisis counsel to clients across industries and sectors, making deep curiosity a requisite for this position. Candidate Qualities As an Associate, you will have the unique opportunity to help drive communications around challenging and exciting projects. You will be a day‑to‑day leader among the team’s Associate‑level staff, working directly with senior leadership to help drive research, develop materials, staff projects, scope work, manage vendors, track budget and balance multiple shifting priorities in real‑time. The ideal candidate will have excellent writing skills and the ability to perform in a fast‑paced, deadline‑oriented environment. You will be intimately familiar with current events and news trends and be able to translate that knowledge into actionable insights for clients. This extends to social and digital communications: you must have true analytical fluency in this area. A strong academic record is necessary, and experience in issues management is a bonus – but candidates of all backgrounds are encouraged to apply. Our Team Our team is a group of smart, analytical and hardworking people who care deeply about helping lead our clients through a crisis to make a positive impact on society. We are on the front lines of some of the biggest, most complex issues – and the nature of our work requires an ability and eagerness to juggle multiple responsibilities and work on multi‑office client teams. You will have the opportunity to play a leading role in driving both ongoing client engagements and discrete projects. What You Will Be Doing Serves as key team member to support a range of complex, high‑profile corporate issues / crisis communications situations (i.e., cybersecurity issues, product safety issues and recalls, natural disaster response, executive leadership changes, IPOs etc.) Supports development of press releases, crisis plans, media strategies, reactive media statements, talking points, FAQs, memos, crisis simulations and other deliverables as needed; Supports monitoring and triaging of client issues Conducts pressing research on a wide range of issues, review and prepare executive summaries and/or analyses detailing clear and concise findings, distill complex and substantial amounts of information into concise summaries and insights; begin to propose strategic and actionable recommendations Provides input during development of projects based on insights and knowledge of client preferences Prepares for and takes part in client meetings, including accurately capturing notes, agenda action items, call recaps, updating trackers, timelines and status documents Serves as role model to team members, producing high quality work and continually updating manager on activity progress Actively builds own knowledge, contributes to inclusive team culture and consistently displays behaviors that support integration Participates in our A‑Team’s On‑Duty rotational schedule covering evening and weekend hours, to handle critical client reports, ad‑hoc research, and support emergent crises. What We Are Looking For Strong writing skills and meticulous attention to detail Strong understanding of social analytics Full analytical fluency in all social/digital platforms Crisis communications, issues management and/or public affairs experience Sharp curiosity and an analytical mind Ability to provide strategic and actionable recommendations based on research Highly effective oral and written communication skills Familiarity with corporate financials Ability to prioritize multiple tasks and manage deadlines in a consistent manner Comfortable asking for help from and providing direction to team members Ability to take ownership, manage and see projects through from start to finish Proactive self‑starter and a quick learner Strong work ethic Basic Qualifications 1‑2 years of professional experience in an agency/strategic consulting firm, political campaign or organization, law or similar setting BA or BS, preferably in Political Science, history, journalism, International Relations or similar fields - Knowledge of basic PR skills and client service Fluent in Microsoft Suite (e.g., Word, PowerPoint, Excel) and proficiency in research, media and social monitoring platforms (e.g., Brandwatch, Sysomos, Cision, Muckrack, TV Eyes, Critical Mention, Lexis‑Nexis) Salary range: $52,000 USD – $60,000 USD Weber Shandwick is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. Weber Shandwick recruits qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, ethnic or national origin, protected veteran status, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status or citizenship status. Account Director, Social Impact and Public Affairs Weber Shandwick is seeking a curious, purpose‑driven, media‑savvy Account Director to join our integrated Social Impact and Public Affairs team in Washington, D.C. This role is designed for a communications strategist who thrives at the intersection of business, policy, media and culture. You’ll be responsible for developing and executing communications strategies for a diverse portfolio of corporate, public sector and nonprofit clients seeking to make a tangible impact in a complex and rapidly evolving landscape. The ideal candidate is a seasoned professional with a passion for driving change and a deep understanding of how to build and protect reputation. You bring a proven track record of delivering effective, integrated campaigns and experience thriving on high‑performing teams in a fast‑paced environment. This position will be based in our Washington, D.C. office on a hybrid schedule. About You You’re a strategic thinker and trusted counselor who excels at building long‑term client relationships. Fluent in internet culture, you’re a voracious consumer of news, compulsively following the conversations shaping politics, the economy, AI, and social and community impact. You bring a network of media relationships that you can leverage for clients. With experience working directly for a principal, you’re adept at positioning them for media opportunities and capturing their voice in compelling content. You confidently shape and deliver narratives across legacy and emerging media platforms. Primary Responsibilities Serve as a client advisor, providing counsel on social, policy and communications issues. Develop and execute bespoke communications strategies – with earned media at the center – that meet clients’ reputational goals. Confidently lead day‑to‑day client engagement, ensuring we deliver our best work and exceed client expectations. Craft compelling narratives, messaging and content on behalf of clients and their principals, including press releases, op‑eds and social media content. Build, maintain and leverage relationships with media to advance client narratives and objectives. Track and provide timely recommendations on developments in politics and culture – and media trends – that impact clients. Collaborate with cross‑functional teams, serving as an integral part of ensuring we deliver cohesive campaign work. Mentor and develop junior team members through hands‑on guidance and feedback. Identify and support new business opportunities to expand the agency’s client base. Desired Skills & Experience Client Leadership: Proven ability to confidently engage with and provide strategic counsel to senior clients, establishing yourself as a knowledgeable advisor. Political & Cultural Fluency: Deeply immersed in the digital landscape, closely following national political and social issue conversations. Executive Communications: Demonstrated experience working for a principal (e.g., corporate executive, public official) and writing compelling content on their behalf. Media Savvy: A strong network of media contacts that can be leveraged for client relationship‑building and pitching, with a track record of delivering successful media campaigns. Additional Qualifications 8‑10 years of professional experience in communications or public affairs agencies, Capitol Hill, Executive Branch agencies, political campaigns, media, nonprofit or similar organizations. Experience with wealth equity or community uplift programs, particularly those impacting the Black community. A background working on political or social issues. A resilient mindset, deep curiosity and healthy sense of humor. Bachelor’s Degree Salary range: $95,000 USD – $125,000 USD Weber Shandwick is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. Weber Shandwick recruits qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, ethnic or national origin, protected veteran status, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status or citizenship status. #J-18808-Ljbffr Resolute Digital, a Weber Shandwick Company