Account Director (Financial & Professional Services)

About Highwire

Highwire is a strategic marketing communications agency at the intersection of innovation and industry. We partner with ambitious companies and established brands to navigate complexity lead markets and grow with purpose. With integrated expertise in strategic communications creative and insights we cut through the noise to deliver bold ideas and measurable impact across B2B technology healthcare cybersecurity energy and sustainability professional and financial services and more.

At Highwire we believe that storytelling fuels transformation. And the most impactful stories represent all voices and perspectives. As a values-driven agency we foster an inclusive environment where everyoneregardless of age race/ethnicity size shape gender identity sexual orientation religion and different abilitiescan feel safe celebrated and worthy.

We ensure every Highwire Walker has unique support to climb to success. Our commitment to diversity inclusion and belonging is permanent and foundational to our business and culture. We aspire to change our industry and build a better future for all.

Our people-first culture is driven by four core values:

• Team Empowerment
• Growth Mindset
• Inclusion Always
• Fierce Distinction

Were looking for individuals with big ideas strong opinions and the energy to bring them to life. If you thrive in an environment that values personal accountability high standards and boundless motivation this is the opportunity for you. Be part of our award-winning culture and contribute to an exciting and growing business where you can make a real impact.

Highwire. Above all.

Position Overview

As an Account Director on Highwires Financial & Professional Services team youll be a strategic leader driving high-impact communications programs for leading and emerging brands across banking fintech insurance asset management consulting and other professional services sectors. You will oversee 45 account teams guide clients on positioning storytelling and visibility and ensure the consistent delivery of exceptional results.

This is a senior opportunity for a creative strategic thinker with 7 years of agency experience and a deep understanding of the Financial & Professional Services landscape. Youll mentor teams build trusted client partnerships and play a key role in agency growth and thought leadership.

What Youll Do

Client Strategy & Leadership

• Lead Financial & Professional Services clients across sectors such as fintech financial institutions wealth management insurance and consulting.
• Develop integrated communications strategies that build brand credibility awareness and business impact.
• Provide senior-level counsel on messaging positioning regulatory considerations and media engagement strategies.
• Translate complex financial concepts into compelling business-relevant stories.
• Serve as a senior client lead ensuring deliverables meet or exceed expectations.
• Identify and pursue opportunities for organic growth within existing accounts.
• Partner with clients on executive visibility thought leadership and market-driven narratives.
• Manage budgets forecast hours and ensure efficient resource allocation across teams.

Media & Influencer Engagement

• Build and maintain strong relationships with top-tier business financial and industry trade media.
• Drive thought leadership programs and creative storytelling that elevate client visibility.
• Oversee data-driven and trend-based pitches to secure meaningful coverage in financial and business press.
• Leverage digital and social platforms to extend earned media reach and engagement.
• Stay ahead of financial economic and industry trends to provide strategic proactive recommendations.

Agency Operations & Leadership

• Manage 34 direct reports providing mentorship guidance and feedback.
• Support new business opportunities from ideation to pitch presentation.
• Contribute to agency marketing initiatives such as award submissions and case studies.
• Champion Highwires culture of inclusion empowerment and collaboration.
• Represent Highwire at Financial & Professional Services industry events and networking opportunities.

What You Bring

• 7 years of PR or communications experience in an agency environment (required)
• Deep experience with Financial & Professional Services clients fintech banking insurance asset management or consulting
• Proven success developing and executing integrated PR and communications programs
• Strong understanding of the financial and business media landscape
• Exceptional writing editing and storytelling skills
• Strategic leadership and client management experience
• Established media relationships and a passion for financial-sector narratives and innovation
• Experience managing and mentoring high-performing teams
• Strong business acumen and ability to identify growth opportunities
• Creative collaborative and confident communicator who thrives in a fast-paced environment

The salary range for this position is $110000 to $150000 with the final offer based on a combination of factors including education relevant experience skills prior training internal equity and local geographic market data. This role also includes a competitive benefits package with medical dental and vision coverage 401(k) matching generous paid time off and additional perks designed to support your overall well-being and growth. #LI-Hybrid

Location & Work Environment

Highwire offers both remote and hybrid work options depending on where you live.

Hybrid: Candidates located within commuting distance of our New York NY or San Francisco CA offices follow a hybrid schedule with two in-office days per week.

Remote: We hire for fully remote roles in the following states: California Colorado Connecticut Florida Illinois Iowa Kansas Maryland Massachusetts Michigan New Hampshire New Jersey New York North Carolina Ohio Oregon Pennsylvania Rhode Island Texas Utah Virginia Washington Washington D.C.

Please note: We are only able to consider candidates who reside in one of the locations listed above at the time of hire.

Highwire Perks & Benefits

Our people-first culture is reflected in the meaningful benefits flexibility and support we offer:

• Competitive salary with merit-based opportunities for growth
• Flexible hybrid work model tailored to your schedule and lifestyle
• Generous vacation policy including extended summer and winter breaks
• Early log-off on Fridays through our Empower Hours program
• 401(k) plan with employer matching
• Comprehensive medical dental and vision coverage plus FSA options
• Paid parental leave
• Commuter benefits
• Home office equipment stipend
• Annual Growth Mindset Stipend for books events or learning experiences
• Monthly technology reimbursement
• Wellness benefit program for mental and physical health
• Donation matching program
• Mentorship and ongoing professional development opportunities
• Monthly recognition and team celebrations
• Employee referral and new business referral bonuses
• Quarterly Highwire events and team gatherings
• Dog-friendly office environment
• A supportive inclusive and collaborative workplace where you can grow and do your best work