Account Director

Marathon Strategies is an independent communications and research firm that helps corporations, industry associations, coalitions, brands, and nonprofits realize their organizational goals and manage complex reputational challenges.

Marathon’s strength is rooted in developing high-quality, research-driven content at speed and then delivering it to target audiences to effectively shape public discussions of our clients and their issues. We create and deliver content across any platform, from traditional earned media to original videos, infographics, and paid media that can be digitally disseminated and shared on social media. Our clients work with us because we are established but nimble in our approach, operating at speed but with intelligence and thoughtful counsel. Our team works at Marathon because we are intellectually stimulated by our coworkers, energized and challenged by our client work and valued for the unique perspectives that we each bring to the firm. We are headquartered in New York City, with offices in Washington, D.C., and Albany and team members around the country.

We are looking for an energetic Account Director with an entrepreneurial spirit to help drive and execute public affairs and communications initiatives for a diverse portfolio of corporate, nonprofit and political clients. This position will be operating remotely but could be based out of the firm's DC or New York offices in the future.

The ideal candidate is a strong writer and a strategic thinker well-versed in politics and news who can help drive sophisticated public affairs and corporate communications campaigns. You will have worked in a public affairs or public relations agency, news organization, political campaign or industry association. You will also have a network of relationships with national media, possess excellent writing skills, and be resourceful, enthusiastic and able to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

As an Account Director you will:

• Own responsibilities for executional leadership of multiple client programs, plans and budgets
• Maintain daily client contact, serving as a trusted resource and advisor
• Facilitate cross-functional team integration (strategy, creative, integrated media specialists)
• Drive development of tactical plans, translating strategies into tactics; ensure team deliverables align with strategies
• Proactively support and suggest improvements and new ideas to exceed client expectations by leveraging industry knowledge and experience
• Contribute to the career growth of junior team members, serving as mentor and role model
• Conduct media and influencer outreach (both trade and mainstream outlets)
• Write and oversee the production of materials such as press releases, op-eds, reports, memos, and presentations
• Convert complex issues into compelling messages on behalf of clients

Your experience and qualifications will include:

• More than six years’ experience in a communications role in an in-house or consultancy environment
• Bachelor’s Degree in a related field
• Experience implementing strategic communication programs for companies in the private and public sector
• A range of media relationships
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills
• Developed or emerging business acumen
• Creative, energetic, detail-oriented and possesses an entrepreneurial spirit