Account Manager

Status: Full-Time - Hybrid (In studio 2-3 days a week, subject to change)

Jacknife needs you – a savvy Account Manager to join our growing team.

You’re a strategic thinker who loves to lead but also knows how to get your hands dirty. Reporting to the Client Service Director, you will lead multiple accounts through strategic planning, creative development, execution and reporting. You will work closely with a diverse and talented group of planners, creatives and external partners to deliver top-notch creativity. You will build and foster all client relationships with growth in mind; you’re the client’s go-to person. You understand that Jacknife is design-led and a leader in the business of creativity. You’ll tap into your IQ and EQ to deliver optimal experiences for our team, clients and partners.

The right fit is important to us. You have that down-to-earth type of personality that gels with our creative team and connects with clients. We are fun to work with, and so are you. You’re confident, organized and an excellent communicator.

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At Jacknife, we proudly uphold a commitment to equality and fairness. We stand firmly against any form of discrimination, respecting the rights and dignity of every individual, regardless of age, colour, disability, national origin, race, religion, sex, or sexual orientation – in compliance with all relevant federal, provincial, and local laws. Our dedication extends to fostering an inclusive and accessible work environment for all. Should you be invited for an interview and need accommodations, please don’t hesitate to inform us. Your comfort is important to us.

Roles & Responsibilities:

• Lead day-to-day client relationship management, project delivery, and execution across a portfolio of accounts.
• Build strong, trusted client relationships by developing a deep understanding of their business, category, and competitive landscape. Act as a reliable partner, bringing thoughtful perspective and identifying opportunities for organic growth.
• Craft clear and concise tactical briefing documents and contribute to the development of robust, strategically driven creative briefs to ensure project stakeholders understand the project scope and objectives.
• Define project scope through detailed statements of work and accurate budget estimates.
• Development of project workback schedules to meet client and client partner deadlines – ensuring seamless workflows for internal teams and external groups.
• Monitor project health through weekly efficiency tracking, flagging discrepancies and contributing to monthly profitability discussions with Finance.
• Maintain consistent, proactive communication across internal teams, clients, and external partners to ensure alignment at every stage.
• Secure all client feedback and required approvals required for each phase of the project.
• Manage and track project costs ensuring we remain within budget and maximum profitability.
• Manage external vendors, ensuring alignment on timelines, budgets, and quality expectations.
• Lead and facilitate client status meetings (weekly or bi-weekly), bringing in and collaborating effectively with external partners as required based on the project Phase.
• Build collaborative, productive relationships with client partners to ensure strong delivery and long-term success.
• Navigate multiple priorities and competing deadlines with confidence and clarity.
• Lead reporting and post-mortems as needed, capturing insights that improve how we work and what we deliver.
• Contribute to a positive, collaborative studio culture.

Qualifications:

• A minimum of 6 years of experience in account management within an agency environment. Experience in a small-to-mid-sized agency is an asset.
• Proven client-facing experience with strong communication and presentation skills.
• Strong project management capabilities, with the ability to navigate and deliver across multiple fast-moving projects.
• A solid understanding of integrated channels including print, digital, social, broadcast and experiential, with experience working across branding, design, and campaign initiatives.
• A strategic thinker with sharp problem-solving instincts and business acumen. Brings a clear point of view, grounded in strategy, but pushing for creative opportunity.
• High emotional intelligence paired with strong relationship-building and client service skills.
• Superior organizational, prioritization and time management skills with a strong attention to detail.
• Proficient in active listening, effective communication (both verbal and written), and a strong client-service orientation.
• Pride in workmanship: Do all things to the best of your ability.
• A self-starter with a track record of managing multiple accounts and projects simultaneously—on time, on budget, even under pressure.
• Genuine interest in current trends, brands, design and the marketing world in general.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace. Experience with HubSpot and Function Point is an asset.