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Account Executive - Tile

Account Executive

Working with the wider account management team Account Executives make sure that the relationship between the agency and the client runs smoothly.

The Account Executive role is entry-level and works across the whole agency. Solving problems, attending meetings, drafting internal and external communications, putting together project timing schedules and documenting progress on the agency projects would be the core part of the role.

They act as the bridge between the agency and the client, fight for good ideas to come to life, and make sure everything stays on budget and on time. This area has traditionally been referred to as ‘the suits’, but may also be called client service, client management or business management.

They are involved in a project from beginning (the client brief) to end (sending the final versions out).

Great skills to have as an Account Executive

A love of relationship-building with colleagues and clients.
Strong communication skills (bonus points if you're a keen negotiator).
Great attention to detail.
Strong organisational skills with the ability to adapt.
A natural curiosity to understand how things work.
An ability to recognise great ideas when you see them
Calm under pressure and a great ability to multi-task

See what it's like...

Tylah Kiriona-McKenzie

Account Executive at Clemenger BBDO

Toes

"We help people...solve their problems by using creativity as our way 'in' and to look at the problem from an angle others haven't."

Pathway to becoming an Account Executive

The best thing about getting into this type of role is that you do not need to have studied a specific tertiary subject. Agencies welcome people from many different areas of study. They are mostly looking for people who communicate well and are confident and enthusiastic.

You can enter through a tertiary pathway, and what you study can be anything you are passionate about. You can also enter without tertiary study. Experience in a corporate workplace, including an understanding of business structures and etiquette, can make the transition smoother.

There are a number of ways to get a job as an Account Executive. Graduates can register their interest in the Comms Council Graduate Talent Hub. You can also apply directly for entry-level roles. When applying, make sure to emphasise your communication and organisational skills in your CV.

Boardroom

Career progression

There are no defined time periods between levels of seniority. Your progress depends on your performance and the opportunities available within your agency. If new clients are brought on, you may find that you move more quickly.

 

When you start in your role, look for opportunities to support your team and wider business, find a mentor or group that can help you when you are feeling stuck, ask lots of questions, and then try putting your hand up for as many projects and opportunities as you can.

What might I be able to earn?

The following provides an indication of the sort of earnings you could achieve during your career. We’ve selected a range of roles and provided indicative earning potential. Titles and levels of responsibility can vary depending on the size of the agency, the nature of its accounts, its location and how it defines each role, so these figures are indicative only.

Account Executive - Pay