Whitehouse Communications is an independent issues-led political communications agency based in London, specialising in public affairs, policy analysis, media relations and political engagement. We advise clients on how to effectively and positively engage with key decisionmakers in Westminster, Whitehall, local government and Brussels.
We are looking for an experienced and collaborative Account Manager to join our UK Public Affairs team on a full-time and permanent basis, driving activity across our existing client accounts and contributing to new business efforts. As an Account Manager, you will be at the forefront of our UK political engagement work, playing a pivotal role in the delivery of our integrated accounts strategy.
This is a client facing role that would suit an individual who thrives on political communications and enjoys building relationships with external stakeholders at all levels. We are especially interested in hearing from candidates who have previous agency experience of managing campaigns and driving them forward, and candidates with parliamentary experience.
Job Description
- Client relationship management: Take the reins on client accounts, managing work programmes to deliver exceptional results with minimal oversight. Develop and implement long-term strategic approaches, ensuring client needs are met and exceeded. Day to day account management and main liaison on client accounts;
- Collaborate closely with consultants to maintain constant communication and provide regular updates to directors;
- Policy expertise and strategic advice: Lead policy development by creating well-researched and compelling position papers, consultation responses, and briefings that advocate for meaningful change, in areas including children’s rights, public health, environmental sustainability and digital in the UK. Alongside directors, devise and execute effective public affairs and advocacy campaigns that raise awareness, engage stakeholders, and influence policy decisions;
- Relationship building: Cultivate strong connections and build trust with clients, parliamentarians, officials, and other relevant stakeholders, attending meetings and driving actions;
- Team Management: Empower the team to excel and ensure continuous delivery and effective collaboration. Maintain high standards by supervising the production of external written materials, ensuring accuracy and relevance. From briefings to consultation responses to reports, your attention to detail will shine through. Line management of consultant level staff;
- Strategic insight: Offering public affairs and policy advice across industries, particularly in the areas of public health, children’s rights and environmental sustainability. Your insights will guide clients in navigating complex landscapes;
- Business growth: Work on new business initiatives by identifying and pursuing opportunities, expanding our presence in emerging sectors. You’ll play a pivotal role in maintaining profitability and securing long-term client partnerships and growing membership bodies where our role is to provide the Secretariat;
- Brand ambassadorship: Represent our company with pride, both internally and externally. Support our PR efforts, contributing to our reputation as industry leaders.
Core Competencies
- Proven experience in public affairs, public policy making, account management, campaign development;
- Strong project management experience, strategic thinking and communication skills;
- In-depth understanding of the UK political and policy landscape;
- Previous agency experience preferred;
- Previous experience working in parliament preferred;
- A demonstrable ability to devise and carry out successful political campaigns for clients from the public, private and voluntary sectors. Proven ability to manage and drive client accounts forward;
- Proven experience of lobbying and working within the mechanisms of Parliament to drive forward demonstrable change;
- Excellent interpersonal skills, with an ability to communicate with a range of decision makers along with senior corporate personnel.
Compensation and Benefits
- Salary: £37,000-£46,000 per annum (based on experience);
- 25 days holiday + bank holidays and birthday off;
- Annual bonus scheme;
- New business bonus scheme;
- Pension scheme;
- Private medical insurance;
- Bi-annual reviews focusing on personal development;
- Significant investment in personal growth: hands-on internal training from public relations and public affairs colleagues and opportunities for external training;
- A sociable team – regular team socials;
- Hybrid working with great offices in the heart of Central London;
- Flexible working available;
- Fortnightly Deliveroo allowance.