Roles and salary guidelines
Account Executive
An account executive will generally report to a number of people on a range of clients.
There is no time limit on the account executive position but generally two to three years in the role should prepare the individual for the next level.
An account executive should be a capable communications and public relations professional able to handle a broad range of tasks with sound judgement.
An account executive has the ability and experience to play an implementation role in client work. He/she must have basic public relations skills e.g. writing for the media, organisational, research and production skills, and be capable of handling direct client contact professionally.
Account Manager
Progress to account manager will depend on how well the individual develops as an account executive.
An account manager should be a competent communications and public relations professional able to handle a wide range of projects with a high degree of independence. The account manager should also be capable, if necessary, of being the lead contact for the client.
He/she must be proficient in writing, media management, event management, research and production, and be actively involved in programme development and presentation delivery, as well as having the confidence and ability to advise clients as issues arise.
Account Director
An account director should be an experienced, broadly capable project and account manager who handles a wide range of assignments, projects and/or clients with a high degree of success and independence. She/he has strong client relationships and is considered a company leader.
An account director will have demonstrated high-level professional knowledge and skills. She/he will be able to manage client accounts with limited supervision as well as develop other, less experienced, team members.
She/he should have strong project management, budgeting, counselling, programming, people management and business development skills with increased emphasis and demonstrated success in building business and people.
She/he has the confidence and support of client contacts and strong relationships with the client's organisation.
There is no time limit on the account director position. Promotion opportunities at this level vary from company to company.
Salary guidelines
Current average gross salaries (2010) are as follows. All are guideline bands only and may vary commensurate with experience:
Entry level graduate: €20,000-€23,500
Account executive: €26,000-€32,500
Account manager: €41,500-€50,000
Account director: €53,000-€67,000
Divisional directors: €65,000-€85,000