ABOUT THE TEAM

VVK PR + Creative is an independent, integrated communications firm based in Detroit. We help brands define themselves with strategic and creative communications services. We are a team of more than 20 PR strategists, digital media specialists and video producers, who implement comprehensive campaigns that achieve results for our dynamic client base. VVK serves clients in industries including automotive, energy, insurance, IT, agriculture, legal, retail, media, nonprofit and real estate.  

ABOUT THIS ROLE

VVK PR + Creative is growing its team and is currently looking for an Associate Vice President of Public Relations (Client Services to join the PR team and lead accounts across its quickly expanding roster of clients. Our Associate Vice President (AVP) of Client Services will provide added-value strategic and creative consultancy with a specific focus on managing account teams in the execution of engagement deliverables and strengthening client relationships. This role will ensure the agency is executing customer service best practices including tracking client surveys, new client check-ins and renewal conversations are planned and scheduled. This opportunity will suit an ambitious, proactive professional who wants to help lead a key portfolio of clients, has a strong entrepreneurial spirit and is ready to join a forward-thinking, fast-paced, independent organization.

As the solutions point of contact for a portfolio of clients, this role is responsible for partnering with our account teams to deliver exceptional client service. They are responsible for collaborating to build strong client relationships and develop organic growth through campaign success, innovation, and through the development of creative and opportunistic ideas.

While there are no direct reports or team management responsibilities, we are looking for someone who has had past success fostering strong relationships with both clients and internal teams.

ABOUT YOU

Working for a PR or marketing agency, you have an impressive track record of retention and organic growth of existing clients as well as winning accounts across a variety of sectors. This experienced account leader can develop strategic communications plans and insights-led creative communication campaigns that engage diverse stakeholders on multiple channels. With a strong grounding in Public Relations with experience in media engagement, you are at ease counseling, guiding and presenting to clients on a broad range of strategies. The Senior Director will spot opportunities to grow existing clients and play a role on new business pitches and onboarding wins.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Account Leadership

• Partner with other account leads and the SVP, Public Relations to manage and grow a portfolio of strategic accounts.
• Develop strong relationships with clients, providing added-value strategic consultancy, creative counsel and initiatives for retention and organic growth
• Act as a point of contact on client accounts, manage client escalations, and solve issues as appropriate.
• Serve as the client advocate to ensure the account teams have the necessary information and awareness of KPIs to engagement scope and complete projects, on schedule and on budget, including client program goals, product knowledge, and best practices.
• Develop, track and maintain cadence of all customer service best practices, including but not limited to annual client satisfaction survey, 90-day new client check ins and annual renewal conversations.
• Promote an integrated communications and multi-channel storytelling mindset to deliver a cohesive plan to clients.
• Run media relations programs, including providing media training for senior/c-suite clients.

Account Team Leadership  

• Lead and engage portfolio team across clients and campaigns, working collaboratively to drive programs that meet the client’s performance and business objectives.
• Provide professional coaching as needed to account team members, assign tasks and deliverables and track accountability for accomplishing client goals.
• Collaborate with leadership on resource planning, budget and cost management on assigned accounts.

VVK Support

• Mentor junior staff in developing media relations strategies, presentation skills, communications campaign development and technical skills to meet client needs.
• Participate in organization-wide committees, work groups and training.
• Support corporate culture actively through direct engagement in agency events and activities and passively by adopting a collaborative, inclusive attitude and example.

WE’RE LOOKING FOR SOMEONE WHO HAS:

• 10+ years of experience with strong knowledge of the public relations/media relations industry; agency experience preferred.
• A deep understanding of integrated communications; experience integrating PR with digital marketing, content and broader marketing activities
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills; an articulate and convincing presenter.
• A strong focus on client service and desire to exceed goals, deliver results and make a positive impact.
• Knowledge of both earned and sponsored media opportunities.
• Existing relationships with local, statewide and national media.
• Ability to problem solve, project manage and multi-task. Will take charge of a situation and act.
• Ability to thrive in a flexible, open-minded, “can do” environment.
• Integrity, humility, self-drive/initiative – and a sense of humor!

Please submit resumes to Laura L’Esperance, SVP of Public Relations at laura@vvkagency.com.