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

San Francisco, California, United States -

Full Time

Start Date

Immediate

Expiry Date

08 Jun, 26

Salary

150000.0

Posted On

10 Mar, 26

Experience

5 year(s) or above

Remote Job

Yes

Telecommute

Yes

Sponsor Visa

Skills

Client Strategy, Strategic Leadership, Senior Client Counsel, Mentorship, Financial Services Expertise, Professional Services Expertise, Storytelling, Media Relations, Integrated Communications, Executive Visibility, Budget Management, Writing, Strategic Thinking, Team Management, New Business Development, Account Management

Industry

Public Relations and Communications Services

Description

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 4–5 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 3–4 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. #LI-Hybrid About Highwire Highwire is a strategic marketing communications agency at the intersection of innovation and industry. We partner with ambitious companies and established brands to navigate complexity, lead markets, and grow with purpose. With integrated expertise in strategic communications, creative, and insights, we cut through the noise to deliver bold ideas and measurable impact across B2B technology, healthcare, cybersecurity, energy and sustainability, professional and financial services, and more. At Highwire, we believe that storytelling fuels transformation. And the most impactful stories represent all voices and perspectives. As a values-driven agency, we foster an inclusive environment where everyone—regardless of age, race/ethnicity, size, shape, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion and different abilities–can feel safe, celebrated and worthy. We ensure every Highwire Walker has unique support to climb to success. Our commitment to diversity, inclusion and belonging is permanent and foundational to our business and culture. We aspire to change our industry and build a better future for all. Our people-first culture is driven by four core values: Team Empowerment Growth Mindset Inclusion Always Fierce Distinction We’re looking for individuals with big ideas, strong opinions, and the energy to bring them to life. If you thrive in an environment that values personal accountability, high standards, and boundless motivation, this is the opportunity for you. Be part of our award-winning culture and contribute to an exciting and growing business where you can make a real impact. Highwire. Above all. Highwire Perks & Benefits Our people-first culture is reflected in the meaningful benefits, flexibility, and support we offer: Competitive salary with merit-based opportunities for growth Flexible hybrid work model tailored to your schedule and lifestyle Generous vacation policy, including extended summer and winter breaks Early log-off on Fridays through our Empower Hours program 401(k) plan with employer matching Comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, plus FSA options Paid parental leave benefits Commuter benefits Annual Growth Mindset Stipend for books, events, or learning experiences Monthly technology reimbursement Wellness benefit program for mental and physical health Donation matching program Mentorship and ongoing professional development opportunities Monthly recognition and team celebrations Employee referral and new business referral bonuses Quarterly Highwire events and team gatherings Dog-friendly office environment A supportive, inclusive, and collaborative workplace where you can grow and do your best work Location & Work Environment Highwire offers both remote and hybrid work options, depending on where you live. Hybrid: Candidates located within commuting distance of our New York, NY or San Francisco, CA offices follow a hybrid schedule, with two in-office days per week. Remote: We hire for fully remote roles in the following states: California, Colorado, Connecticut, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Iowa, Kansas, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Virginia, Washington, and Washington, D.C.. Please note: We are only able to consider candidates who reside in one of the locations listed above at the time of hire. Join the Highwire team If you’re inspired by the opportunity to shape meaningful stories and grow alongside a team that values innovation, accountability, and inclusion, apply below to start the conversation.

Responsibilities

Account Directors lead high-impact, integrated communications programs for financial and professional services brands, providing strategic leadership, senior client counsel, and mentorship to 4-5 account teams. They ensure strategies are forward-thinking and results-driven while playing a key role in agency growth and fostering a high-performing team culture.