PR & Influence Account Director (based in Durban)

OUR TEAM
Were problem solvers. We don't just spot problems (that's the easy bit) we come up with smart, creative solutions. Were active. We don't sit around assuming someone else will make something happen, were driven to get up and do it ourselves. Were always hugely ambitious for the work. Not content with good enough because we all know that's not actually good enough. Were adaptable, not inflexible. That way were always open to explore new ideas, experiences and channels. Were team players, not lone wolves. Because wed be crazy not to make the most of the huge pool of talent around us. Plus its much more fun to work together.

We use our EQ, as well is our IQ. People who get people are so much better at their jobs, and nicer to be around. If this sounds like a team youd like to be part of, please get in touch

POSITION SUMMARY

As an Account Director you lead large, more complex projects, armed with your experience and proven ability to think and do. You are able to problem solve, and create highly effective and fruitful working relationships with clients and collagues, collaborating with other business units within our business and across teams. You have a solid understanding of PR and influence strategy and implementation in the consumer sector, while ensuring that you and the team are working towards strategic objectives, providing best practice and high quality work output. Ideally you would also have experience managing large multi-market campaigns, and overseeing junior team support.

You are a role model to your line reports, who seek you out as a source of advice and guidance.

PR & Influencer marketing

The role includes boosting media coverage opportunities to meet client KPIs, being present at client-media interactions. Collaboration with the business development team, the head of the newsroom, head of influence and the managing director is vital to preemptively manage any potential issues that could impact the client negatively.

The influencer marketing aspect requires a solid track record of working with diverse influencers. A strong of understanding local influencers for brand collaborations, and contributing to the influencer strategy for each campaign and project. The role also entails leading negotiation on high profile influencer fees and contracts, overseeing project scope and approval processes.

Building client relationships

Has a relationship with mid level clients that is one of trusted partner, based on proven track record of delivery.

Is able to confidently lead influence conversations and problem solve in the moment as required, and act as a point of escalation for junior clients.

Understands the strategic, and business context the client is operating in and uses this knowledge to develop solutions and approach tasks in a way that is effective for the client

Leadership

In this leadership role, the ideal candidate will embody the agency's vision and core values integrity, excellence, and teamwork while championing the five pillars of OSA's Hybrid Working Framework that emphasize client impact, a connected culture, growth, development, and wellness.

The role requires proactive communication regarding team achievements and concerns, with a focus on solution-oriented management. The candidate will also be expected to continuously seek out and apply innovative working methods and problem-solving strategies to advance the agency's objectives. Additionally, the leader will be responsible for cultivating effective and productive account teams that align with the agency's and clients commitment to excellence.

Making work were proud of

Collaborates confidently with other capabilities and crafts in service of finding the best integrated influence creative solution to the clients business problem. Is seen as a champion for the work with all those they come in to contact with.

Demonstrates their ability for creative problem solving in how they approach every task whether that's identifying a way to improve the internal process, or co-creating an inspiring way to sell in the work. Able to consider different angles on a brief a non linear thinker.

Responsibility & accountability

Takes responsibility for larger influence projects. And feels accountable for both the work, and the process.

Understands that they are accountable for the actions of the account team reporting into them on projects; guiding them and intervening and managing up as required.

Is not afraid to share concerns, escalate issues, or apologise to ensure that this sense of accountability is felt.

Commercial Acumen

Able to recognise the commercial implications of agency decisions and external influences, and manage the internal and client conversations arising from these.

Will manage client expectations when having to charge more for additional work in a manner which does not expose the agency to financial risk

Is well informed about the commercials of all projects they are responsible for, managing those below them to meet agreed targets

Project Management

The role encompasses comprehensive oversight of projects and events, beginning with the development of a detailed proposal that aligns with the client's vision and managing the budget and team activities from start to finish. Approval of the plan and budget is mandatory before moving forward, along with managing suppliers and activations teams.

During the event, the focus shifts to ensuring client expectations are met, orchestrating the efforts of suppliers and account teams, and maintaining strict adherence to deadlines. Following the event, the responsibility includes prompt invoicing for any pending payments and overseeing the compilation of event reports and reviews.

Collaboration

Able to maintain strong partnership with internal stakeholders across all crafts in and support cross functional agendas for the benefit of the company and the client.

Has strong relationship with their days to day clients and wider client stakeholders, and uses these relationships to help protect the work, strengthen the relationships and activate new opportunities.

Problem solving & decision making

Approaches each task with a clear understanding of the business issue the client is trying to solve, and able to measure the brief against this and the strategy to ensure the right work is developed. Thinks laterally about how problems can be solved. Acts as an escalation point for the team in resolving issues. Supports the team in confidently navigating through problems

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day running of influencer campaigns and supporting managers and executives, from identification, creative, implementation and reporting.
• Design and define industry leading Influencer strategy: recommend objectives, targets, action plan, calendar and budget.
• Aligning and collaborating with media, PR, social, brand activation, digital and all other stakeholders internal and external to deliver best in class campaigns for our clients.
• Nurturing client appropriate talent opportunities and nurturing relationships to help deliver the influencer program for clients.
• Lead and deliver creative and sell content solutions to internal stakeholders and clients.
• Responsible for overseeing day to day activations and providing oversight and council for junior support team
• Provide senior council to clients, advising on industry developments as they occur and showing relevance for clients on the ground.
• Stay up-to-date with cultural/social trends and customers views and attitudes.
• Assists in the development of and participation in promoting our influencer offering across the business, including writing thought leadership and attending industry events.
• Leads on additional projects as required such as new business pitches, market reviews and competitive trends.

Must Haves:

• Passion for Consumer PR and Influencer marketing with a minimum of five to six years experience in the field.
• The ability to remain optimistic under pressure.
• Good analytical skills and the ability to think strategically and creatively.
• Self-motivated, action-oriented and ambitious with a positive "can-do" attitude.
• A keen interest in all things social/PR/digital and an avid follower of relevant news & trends.