DeVries is a mid-sized, culture-first communications agency that combines the fast-moving, client-centric culture of a boutique with a global footprint across three regions: North America, Europe and Asia. With our HQ in New York City, our locations include Beijing, Berlin, Hong Kong, Los Angeles, London, Shanghai, Singapore and Taipei. We are dedicated to decoding culture to unlock sustained, meaningful influence for brands.We are seeking a Vice President to join our consumer lifestyle team in the NY office, currently remote. The Vice President plays a critical role in determining the future and long-term success of DeVries Public Relations. A VP is responsible for managing the client relationship and teams and is accountable for delivering contracted work on time and within budget, staffing accounts appropriately and producing high-quality work and excellent results. The ideal candidate brings a demonstrated record of developing and executing successful public relations strategies and programs.A Vice President plays a critical role in determining the future and long-term success of DeVries Public Relations. The VP is responsible for managing the client relationship and teams and is accountable for delivering contracted work on time and within budget, staffing accounts appropriately and producing high-quality work and excellent results. The ideal candidate brings a demonstrated record of developing and executing successful public relations strategies and programs.PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIESClientServe as senior strategic counsel for the clientDevelop and maintain strong relationships with senior stakeholdersMaintain ongoing communication with clients on a daily basisDevelop quality standards and ensure client satisfactionDevelop long-term plans and program recommendations for clientsAct on the front lines for any issues or challenges related to the business or teamResponsible for client relations, review meetings, entertaining and client budget approvalDevelop and deliver client presentationsMedia and Influencer RelationsSolid understanding of how to craft relevant stories across all media typesEvaluate/counsel team members' pitching skills and makes time to train teamsDemonstrate a well-developed knowledge of client relevant mediaMaintain roster of key media contactsMust have baseline level of knowledge and expertise re: social platforms and paid/owned/earned modelGuides the team in making high-profile influencer strategy recommendations, establishing criteria and ensuring that the approach meets the client's objectivesUnderstands digital influencer landscape – selection, collaboration, activationInternal (client) and external (e.g. celebrity) spokesperson managementDevelop and manage brand relationship and presence on new media through earned influencer programsWritten & Oral SkillsAbility to convey ideas and recommendations in a strategic and compelling mannerSupervise all team writing and editing and makes time to train teamsBe accountable for and have control over final review of all presentations, memos, meeting reports and client materialsWork closely with senior management to develop strategic and creative recommendationsExtremely comfortable with plan/idea presentation; compelling speaking styleBudgetingUnderstands DeVries' business model and staffingComfortable managing up to $1M of client revenueStrong sense of how to hunt for organic opportunities for growthCreate and execute accurate budget estimates for clients for long-term and short-term programs and adhere to approved fundsOverall budget management (Fee and OOP tracking)Authorize billing invoices and if necessary, follow-up with past-due invoices to clientsTeam ManagementElevates successes and challenges appropriately to supervisorProvide leadership, direction and guidance to account team(s)Develop and coach account teams for peak performanceWork with peers to further the mission, goals and culture of the agencyBe key contact for internal staff to address issuesEnsure quality work from team in order to meet/exceed client expectationsAttend account reviews and staff meetings – provide ongoing communications and feedbackHelp structure and staff new and existing project teams, including reviewing resumes and interviewing candidatesEnsure that account team members adhere to agency time reporting and financial guidelinesConduct performance reviewsMake recommendations regarding salary increases, promotions, etc.Serve as a role model to other team membersNew Business DevelopmentNew business hungry mentality; strong networkerAssist in the development of new business initiativesCapable participating in new business pitch development and presentationsQUALIFICATIONSEducationBachelor's DegreeProfessional Experience9+ years related professional experienceSuccess FactorsCan turn ideas into workable plansAdeptness in conveying ownership of assigned projects to junior team membersDemonstrate the ability to resolve conflictSkill in mobilizing and motivating teamsExpertise in working independentlyExcellent oral and written business communication skillsAptitude for financial analysisCan complete challenging projects within set parametersExceptional judgment when working with team members, client contacts and vendorsAptitude for successfully "selling" additional services or negotiate additional funding for projectsCommitment and dedication to the agency's success as well as individual careerDesire to pursue learning and self-development; participates in required and voluntary professional development programs.Can anticipate client and team needsAttention to detail and qualityCan solve problemsCan impress new business prospectsSalary: $125,000-$170,000DeVries has included the base salary or hourly rate for this role. Actual compensation offered within the range will depend upon, among other factors: actual ranges for current or former employees in the role; market considerations; budgetary considerations; as well as a candidate's background, relevant experience, and qualifications.DeVries is proud to be an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer. DeVries recruits qualified applicants without regard to race, color, religion, gender, age, ethnic or national origin, protected veteran status, physical or mental disability, sexual orientation, gender identity, marital status or citizenship status.
