Account Director

OVERVIEW/SUMMARY:

The Account Director will play an essential role in supporting the Director, Vice President and Senior Vice President on the development and execution of: generating maximum brand exposure through creative product placement, profile features and launches. The Account Director must have a genuine passion for developing brands for their assigned market, using true initiative to achieve exceptional results. Impeccable client liaison skills and an established network of key contacts (brands and editors) are essential.

RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS

In this role the Account Director will promote clients in all activities, including campaigns, special projects, shows, and events to the media, general public, and external audiences. The Account Director’s responsibilities also include increasing awareness for all brands represented by the team, developing and maintaining relationships with key journalists and media within the designated markets, acting as an ambassador for Karla Otto.

Assisting and working closely with the Director, Vice President and Senior Vice President:

·         Develop and implement accordingly forward planning documents and strategies for the season ahead for collection and product launches, product focuses, and events

·         Draft, edit, disseminate and oversee press releases and other relevant PR materials

·         Build on existing exceptional media relationships within the industry while also creating new contacts (long-lead and short-lead, mainstream media, trade and blogs with Fashion, Lifestyle, Design, Art). Act as an ambassador amongst all key target media at appropriate levels

·         Pitch, secure and accomplish/manage fashion news stories / brand and design features in all key media

·         Suggest ideas/initiatives/ strategies to drive brand awareness

·         Develop media/ influencer seeding program where appropriate which will then be executed by Account Manager

·         Keep an overview of collections and sample loan activities

·         Together with the Director, oversee, manage, and develop all tasks and responsibilities of Account Manager, Coordinator, and Assistant

·         Assist with advice and support when necessary

·         Show management, including seating and all logistics around the shows during fashion week

·         Ensure positive communication with clients and international Karla Otto offices

·         Lead client meetings

·         Support with new business development; including identifying opportunities, creating strategic proposals and pitching to potential clients

Additional:

·         Engage in department and agency initiatives as needed

·         Possess strong  understanding of all internal communications strategies, tools and systems to ensure alignment with overall brand messaging. Able to drive both internal and external communications when needed

·         Acquire knowledge and skills to work with Fashion GPS within all relevant areas (sample trafficking, events, shows, database)

KEY ATTRIBUTES

·          Proven experience in a Senior PR role within a luxury fashion environment

·         Strong managerial and organizational skills

·         Solid understanding of and ongoing interest in the (luxury) fashion industry

·         Digital-first mindset with a strong ability to devise fully integrated communication strategies

·         A responsive and understanding approach to client management

·         Creative and strategic thinker

·         Able to identify communication opportunities through a pro-active approach

·         Proven experience of working in a fast-paced environment. Ability to work to tight deadlines. Excellent prioritizing and time management

·         Discreet, professional and articulate, with excellent communication skills

·         Extremely well-organized, methodical and efficient, with a good dose of common sense and initiative

·         Strong presentation & superb writing skills

·         A visionary and opportunistic approach to new business development

·         Strong computer skills including Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint, Fashion GPS