Account Director (Financial & Professional Services)
Highwire invites applications for the Account Director role within our Financial & Professional Services team.
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.
We believe that storytelling fuels transformation. The most impactful stories represent all voices and perspectives. As a values-driven agency, we foster an inclusive environment where everyone—regardless of age, race / ethnicity, size, shape, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion and different abilities—can feel safe, celebrated and worthy. We are committed to diversity, inclusion and belonging. Our people-first culture is driven by four core values : Team Empowerment, Growth Mindset, Inclusion Always, Fierce Distinction.
Position Overview
As an Account Director on Highwire's Financial & Professional Services team, you'll 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 4–5 account teams, guide clients on positioning, storytelling, and visibility, and ensure the consistent delivery of exceptional results. This senior opportunity requires 7+ years of agency experience and a deep understanding of the Financial & Professional Services landscape. You'll mentor teams, build trusted client partnerships, and play a key role in agency growth and thought leadership.
What You’ll 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 3–4 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 Highwire's culture of inclusion, empowerment, and collaboration.
Represent Highwire at 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 $110,000 to $150,000, with the final offer based on factors such as 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.
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. Candidates must reside in one of these states at time of hire.
Highwire Perks & Benefits
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 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.
Supportive, inclusive, and collaborative workplace where you can grow and do your best work.
Seniority Level
Director
Employment Type
Full-time
Job Function
Sales and Business Development
Marketing Services
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Financial Professional • San Francisco, California, United States