Senior Account Manager

Who We Are:

At VML, we are a beacon of innovation and growth in an ever-evolving world. Our heritage is built upon a century of combined expertise, where creativity meets technology, and diverse perspectives ignite inspiration. With the merger of VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson, we have forged a new path as a growth partner that is part creative agency, part consultancy, and part technology powerhouse. 

Our global family now encompasses over 30,000 employees across 150+ offices in 64 markets, each contributing to a culture that values connection, belonging, and the power of differences.  Our expertise spans the entire customer journey, offering deep insights in communications, commerce, consultancy, CRM, CX, data, production, and technology. We deliver end-to-end solutions that result in revolutionary work. 

YOUR ROLE IN A NUTSHELL 

The Senior Account Manager (SAM) works directly with client and agency teams to develop strategic solutions and lead the go to market activity. Many of the job responsibilities are consistent with an Account Manager role and must be upheld; however, this position manages multiple relationships with the clients, leads/develops initial strategic input and sets expectations for project delivery.  The SAM should interact with clients and internal partners as both an effective project steward and strategic partner who helps clarify and develop project objectives, identifies challenges, and guides the creation of strategies and metrics for success. This person will be responsible for both leading medium – large projects and acting as day-to-day support on strategic projects.

Opportunity to join VML based in stunning South Bank precinct. 

If you are passionate about creative and building strong relationships in equal measure – we'd love to meet you. 

This full-time role reports directly to the Client Partner, working across a portfolio of strategic brands, at the forefront of truly connected communications.

To be considered for the role, you'll have a minimum of 3 years' experience. You’ll be the cornerstone of the team, working closely with both internal teams and the client to ensure that projects are delivered on time, on budget and on brief. The environment is fast paced and the expectations high, so a respect for process is a base requisite. 

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Day-to-day main client contact on campaigns managed.
• Ensures operational excellence on the accounts managed.
• Directs team relative to clients’ business goals and objectives to inform projects.
• Participates /leads key client meetings: status meetings, brand/project briefings, cross-agency partner meetings, presentation of VML work.
• Informs Client Partner and Business Lead on status of projects.
• Maintains and grows knowledge of clients’ business and industry.
• Keeps team apprised of competitive activity.
• Financial management responsibilities include reviewing SOWs, projections and billing for campaigns managed.
• Focus is on client campaigns, directing execution of projects (80%) and mining new opportunities (20%).
• Proactive thought leadership around areas of interest and new opportunities.

REQUIRED EXPERIENCE/SKILLS/CAPABILITIES

• Bachelor’s degree or equivalent preferred.
• Agency and/or client-side experience managing large- scale campaigns.
• Detailed knowledge/passion of the digital industry, emerging trends, and innovation, coupled with a love of strategy and a thirst for learning.
• Highly motivated, energetic, and driven - A radiator, who is resourceful and proactive, seeking out opportunities without being asked.
• Comfortable in a fast-paced environment and making decisions.
• Detail oriented - A closer, who is highly organised and detail driven.
• Strong ability to form and maintain good relationships, ensuring clients don’t just like you, they LOVE you.
• A strong communicator with effective presenter skills necessary to deliver regular presentations, who understands how to work with multiple stakeholders.
• Ability to think and operate with strategic orientation in addition to task/project management.
• Ability to lead cross-functional teams and participate in and navigate cross- agency collaboration.
• Team player with strong interpersonal and organisational skills, committed to making a difference to your team, the client and the agency, and who is a general good egg that fits at the heart of our established team.
• Manages up and knows when to escalate internal and/or client concerns.
• Ability to help mentor and support career development of junior team members.
• Interested in agency financials, including profitability and revenue.

VML AUNZ HIGHLIGHTS

There are many things that make VML an awesome place to work, but we think there are a few worth mentioning:

• Energise Leave - 5 paid afternoons off each year between February-November.
• Birthday Leave - a paid day off to celebrate your Birthday each year.
• Loyalty Leave - a paid day off each year to celebrate your work anniversary.
• Employee Assistance Program access 24/7 support.
• Mental Health Support.
• LinkedIn Learning access for all employees.
• Foundation Day - the anniversary of our establishment where every employee works together to give back to the community.
• PerkSPACE - a dedicated platform for employee benefits that help you save, grow and generously make life easier.
• Parental Leave – time off for new parents.

We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we’ve adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office an average of four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.

WPP (VML) is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without discrimination or regard to characteristics. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone feels they belong and has the same opportunities to progress in their careers. 

VML is a WPP Agency. For more information, please visit our website, and follow VML on our social channels via Instagram, LinkedIn, and X. 

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