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Posted January 02, 2023
KARLA OTTO

Account Director, Communications

KARLA OTTO
New York State, USA ⚠ [Archived] No Longer Accepting Applicants

At Karla Otto we are always looking for personalities with positive charisma who are enthusiastic, self-motivated and passionate.

OVERVIEW/SUMMARY:

The Account Director will play an essential role in supporting the Vice President on the development and execution of: generating maximum brand exposure through creative product placement, profile features and launches. The Account Director must have a genuine passion for developing brands for their assigned market, using true initiative to achieve exceptional results. Impeccable client liaison skills and an established network of key contacts (brands and editors) are essential.

Together with the VP will oversee, manage, and develop all tasks and responsibilities of Account Manager, Coordinator, and Assistant

RESPONSIBILITIES AND TASKS

In this role the Account Director will promote clients in all activities, including campaigns, special projects, shows, and events to the media, general public, and external audiences. The Account Director’s responsibilities also include increasing awareness for all brands represented by the team, developing and maintaining relationships with key journalists and media within the designated markets, acting as an ambassador for Karla Otto. An expert with established senior level media contacts and the ability to pitch larger brand features/designer profiles.

  • Develop and implement accordingly forward planning documents and strategies for the season ahead for collection and product launches, product focuses, and events
  • Draft, edit, disseminate and oversee press releases and other relevant PR materials
  • Build on existing exceptional media relationships within the industry while also creating new contacts (long-lead and short-lead, mainstream media, trade and blogs with Fashion, Lifestyle, Design, Art). Act as an ambassador amongst all key target media at appropriate levels
  • Pitch, secure and accomplish/manage fashion news stories / brand and design features in all key media
  • Suggest ideas/initiatives/ strategies to drive brand awareness
  • Develop media/ influencer seeding program where appropriate which will then be executed by Account Manager
  • Keep an overview of collections and sample loan activities
  • Together with the Director, oversee, manage, and develop all tasks and responsibilities of Account Manager, Coordinator, and Assistant
  • Assist with advice and support when necessary
  • Show management, including seating and all logistics around the shows during fashion week
  • Ensure positive communication with clients and international Karla Otto offices
  • Lead client meetings
  • Support with new business development; including identifying opportunities, creating strategic proposals and pitching to potential clients

Additional:

  • Engage in department and agency initiatives as needed
  • Possess strong understanding of all internal communications strategies, tools and systems to ensure alignment with overall brand messaging. Able to drive both internal and external communications when needed
  • Acquire knowledge and skills to work with Fashion GPS within all relevant areas (sample trafficking, events, shows, database)

KEY ATTRIBUTES

  • Proven experience in a Senior PR role within a luxury fashion environment
  • Strong managerial and organizational skills
  • Solid understanding of and ongoing interest in the (luxury) fashion industry
  • Digital-first mindset with a strong ability to devise fully integrated communication strategies
  • A responsive and understanding approach to client management
  • Creative and strategic thinker
  • Able to identify communication opportunities through a pro-active approach
  • Proven experience of working in a fast-paced environment. Ability to work to tight deadlines. Excellent prioritizing and time management
  • Strong presentation & superb writing skills
  • A visionary and opportunistic approach to new business development
  • Strong computer skills including Outlook, Excel, and PowerPoint, Fashion GPS

Karla Otto is an international brand, communications & digital agency for industry leaders across fashion, beauty, design and lifestyle. It was established over 30 years ago in Milan, with offices subsequently opened in Paris, London, New York, Los Angeles, and most recently in Hong Kong, Beijing, Shanghai & Seoul.

At Karla Otto we are always looking for personalities with positive charisma who are enthusiastic, self-motivated and have a keen sense of aesthetics.