Account Director jobs
Winning new clients is a high-energy job, with a high potential for blind alleys and expended time between successful campaigns. That’s why it’s highly cost effective to devote quality time and resources to retaining existing clients. For that, skilled account directors are required.
In larger logistics companies, account directors will have a team of account managers underneath them, and they will deal directly with clients on a one-to-one basis; clients generally like to be dealing with the same person, who will know their needs and issues. Account directors will oversee the whole customer retention operation, and will be responsible for strategic decisions to this end, but not necessarily the micromanagement of order fulfilment. The account director may also have responsibility for organising and instructing a sales team in order to win new clients, as well as seeking out new openings with existing clients and their partners.
Reporting to the company management, he or she will be expected to explain decisions and actions and provide regular reports. Any problems that cannot be addressed by the account managers will become the account director’s responsibility, followed ultimately by the management’s.
Maintaining morale will be an important role, both in the clients and in your own team. Whether this means treading on egg shells or throwing a party will depend on the relationship!
The skills required
Interpersonal skills, particularly diplomacy, will be a key skill of the account director. Since different clients will have different needs and desires, from methods of payment to hours of work to corporate personality, you will need to have an instinct for switching demeanour at the sound of a ringing phone.
Sales and marketing experience will be extremely useful, as selling one’s company’s benefits does not end with the winning of a client; they will probably be constantly seeking out other deals to reduce their overheads, and you will need to be able to convince them that your company is the best option for them. You’ll need the confidence to be able to make important decisions without constant recourse to senior management.
Account Director Jobs in Yorkshire
A historic county in northern England, Yorkshire is well known for its beautiful green spaces, as well as its intriguing past - but it has also long been a centre for industry and commerce, making it an ideal choice for those seeking Account Director jobs.
During the 15th century, the region was locked in civil war against neighbouring county Lancashire. Known as the Wars of the Roses, this series of conflicts over the throne lasted for more than 85 years, although a more friendly rivalry between the regions still exists today - mainly when it comes to sport.
Renowned for its wool and textile industry, Yorkshire also gained prominence for coal mining in the 16th and 17th centuries.
As the Industrial Revolution took hold, the region flourished - this was especially true of Sheffield, which was known for its innovation in the steel industry. What's more, a series of canals and railways was also developed, simplifying the transport of goods and raw materials throughout the region.
Today, a number of large cities and towns can be found in Yorkshire, including, Sheffield, Leeds, Hull, Halifax and Bradford, and within these locations job seekers can find a variety of industries - from financial and retail, through to manufacturing and technology.
Some of the top employers in the region include Morrisons, Asda, Yorkshire Bank Leeds, First Direct, Timothy Taylor Brewery and McCain Foods (GB).
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Cast UK’s recruitment consultants can help you take the next step in your logistics career, if you're looking for a promotion or simply want to change employer.
We work alongside hundreds of UK employers to ensure their new positions are filled by the best people. We only employ – and are founded and managed by – people with experience in logistics, supply chain and procurement.
To find out more about how Cast UK can help you recruit an Account Director for your business or find you a job as an Account Director then contact one of our consultant team on 0333 121 3345.
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