The Director is responsible for the management of large/ Multiple client relationships. He/She is responsible for managing a book of business through the management of client projects, supervising project teams, allocating resources, and delegating projects and tasks effectively. This role requires a firm grasp of strategy and planning skills to meet client’s objectives, develop communication plans, and manage budgets. Building new business opportunities is also integral to this position, including finding way to grow existing projects. The Director interfaces with all levels of staff, participates in management meetings, serves as the primary client contact and manages the client relationship, and is brought in to resolve client issues on smaller accounts managed by Associate Directors or Consultants.
Primary Duties and Responsibilities
- Builds and manages large client relationships effectively building confidence in APCO as a trusted business partner, while preserving APCO’s interest in the business relationship
- Develops plans and manages resources to achieve team goals effectively to increase likelihood for success
- Achieves established business and professional objectives
- Leads teams around business development opportunities and manages proposal process ensuring accurate scoping/budgeting of opportunity
- Networks actively to increase visibility of APCO and to identify new business prospects as routine activity
- Establishes strong cross-regional network and engages in productive exchanges with colleagues to promote knowledge sharing and business opportunities; promoting the skills of others
- Confidently leads internal and client meetings, offering knowledgeable observations and suggestions; establishing credibility by insights shared; encouraging and motivating others to communicate ideas
- Serves as principal client contact; knows when to leverage senior level relationships within APCO to further build the relationship within the client organization
- Actively networks
- Proactively identifies and participates in external meetings and trainings to enhance sector knowledge and contacts
- Demonstrates an understanding of effective project management, can effectively address issues, and understands how account engagements tie to APCO’s business management
- Takes ownership and actively engages in team member development; demonstrating thoughtful planning to increase individual skill sets by setting smart objectives
- Maintains awareness of company initiatives and actively promotes them within their project teams
- Meets or exceeds assigned utilization/ABP targets
- Demonstrates performance in growing clients organically and new prospects
- Shares opportunities across the network looking for the best resources to service the account(s)
- Consistently demonstrates APCO’s values in all interactions with colleagues, vendors and clients
- Participates in annual business planning, forecasting opportunity with clients under management
- Cultivates an environment in which development of digital competencies among the team are emphasized
- Leads by example by applying digital strategy and thinking directly and integrating it fully into client work
Requirements
- A minimum of 10 years of PR/strategic communications, public affairs or media experience – agency experience is a plus
- Previous experience working for sectors related to destination marketing, travel, tourism and transport is a plus.
- Bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university in a related field or equivalent
- Solid project management experience and a proven ability to manage multiple projects and client initiatives and teams of both junior and senior colleagues in a fast-paced environment
- Previous experience developing and leading strategic communications (corporate communications, issues management, internal communications, crisis communications, etc.) plans across various industries and subject areas (healthcare, food and consumer goods, travel, technology, transportation, energy, etc.)
- Entrepreneurial spirit and collaborative team player
- Has positive reputation internally across the APCO network and has visibility in the market as a thought leader
Work Conditions
The physical abilities needed to perform the duties of this position, in addition to the office climate:
- Office environment is general office setting
- Some travel may be required
- Must reside in Riyadh or be willing to relocate
- Willing to work additional or irregular hours as needed and allowed by local regulations
About APCO
APCO is a global advisory and advocacy firm helping leading corporations, foundations and governments navigate a complex world and create lasting impact.
Founded in 1984, with one woman’s vision and bold action, APCO has grown into an independent, majority women-owned firm of more than 1,200 employees with work spanning 80 markets around the world.
Headquartered in Washington, D.C., APCO is comprised of strategic advisers, consultants and creators, working together across borders and functions, to provide services and expertise on financial, competitive, political and societal issues.
APCO is a trusted partner to bold purpose-led leaders, lawmakers, government officials, NGOs, the media and other stakeholders in the health, energy, technology, transportation & infrastructure and food & consumer products sectors. For 40 years, the firm has provided public affairs, crisis & reputation, impact, corporate reputation and global solutions services.
APCO is renowned for its ability to champion clients’ interests and permission to operate, build their reputation and strengthen their standing. APCO’s integrated approach and team of tenacious and empathic talent create connections and winning strategies that accelerate progress and deepen impact.
By bringing diverse people and ideas together, and working beyond traditional boundaries, APCO builds the un/common ground upon which progress is made.
