Alta Via/Wilks Communications Group is a fast-growing integrated marketing communications firm located in downtown Chicago and Minneapolis. We serve a wide range of clients across the commercial real estate, higher education, nonprofit, corporate and food & beverage sectors.

We are seeking an energetic and ambitious senior account executive located in the Minneapolis area to support clients in our commercial real estate, built environment (construction, architecture, banking), higher education and corporate groups. The ideal candidate will have previous agency experience and expertise in business-to-business public relations programs.

Candidate must be well-versed in programs that include the full range of integrated communications disciplines, including traditional media relations, social media, influencer and marketing support. This person will have direct client-interaction and requires strong project management and presentation skills.

Basic Qualifications:

• Bachelor’s degree in communications, public relations, marketing, business, journalism, or related field
• Five or more years of progressive professional experience
• Prior agency experience highly preferred
• Background in commercial real estate, design/architecture, construction, urban planning and/or higher ed is a plus
• Demonstrated growth and experience in managing teams, individuals, timelines, resources and budgets
• Excellent writing and verbal communication skills, client/team management and leadership skills
• A strong understanding of the earned media landscape and how to write for a wide range of audiences
• Proven experience in growing the scope of work of existing clients
• Experience in communications planning, program implementation and management with a record of delivering superior program results for clients

Responsibilities and Expectations:

Leadership and Team Management:

• Thrives in a fast-paced environment that requires moving multiple projects forward simultaneously
• Efficiently manages and coordinates aspects of large accounts, projects, or events
• Extroverted personality with the ability to interface directly with clients and effectively move projects forward
• Assists in the agency recruitment process, including interviews and selection
• Able to mentor, teach, and lead by example to support more junior team members
• Motivates others by demonstrating a commitment to quality work

Client Relations:

• Serves as daily client contact and client lead when appropriate, developing a strong client partnership based on open dialogue, mutual understanding and respect
• Becomes an expert on the client’s business, products, competitive set, and priorities
• Effectively presents the agency’s recommendations and point-of-view to clients
• Identifies client needs and opportunities and offers agency solutions

Strategic Planning and Program Management:

• Drives creative ideation through collaborative brainstorms, discussions, and planning sessions
• Collaborates closely with the team to drive the planning process and develop strategic storytelling campaigns, key messages, and well-targeted media pitches
• Applies key client information in program development, including business strategy and industry trends
• Owns presentation preparation and ensures accuracy and timely submission
• Identifies and establishes program KPIs and tracks program financials
• Partners closely with team members to move projects successfully from launch to completion
• Proactively manages concurrent projects and timelines to adhere to deadlines
• Understands paid media solutions for content amplification

Financial and Operational Management:

• Understands core financial constructs, including revenue, profitability, pricing, budgeting, and forecasting
• Supports the development of project scopes and budgets
• Tracks and monitors project financials and helps resolve client budget issues
• Supports internal finance and forecasting work

Networking and Business Development:

• Participates in relevant professional organizations and networking activities to grow the firm’s brand recognition
• Forges relationships with third-party vendors and business partners
• Contributes to the new business process, including identifying opportunities, RFP responses, and deck development
• Identifies opportunities for expansion and growth within existing clients

Continuous Learning and Cultural Awareness:

• Possesses strong time management skills and is highly organized
• Demonstrates desire for continuous learning
• Stays on top of culture, constantly consuming news and social media to predict trends and inform the work

Alta Via/Wilks Communications Group is a woman-owned company. We offer competitive compensation, comprehensive benefits and a flexible hybrid work environment at the Chicago and Minneapolis locations. Our agency fosters a supportive environment where team members care for one another. We believe in incorporating elements of fun into our daily routines, whether it’s organizing all-agency games of Wordle, hosting virtual wine and chocolate tastings, or casually connecting during happy hours.

Interested candidates should send a resume and cover letter to bluczak@altaviaconsult.com.

For additional information about Alta Via visit altaviaconsult.com and Wilks Communications Group visit wilksgrp.com.