Account manager job description.

What does an account manager do?

 

An account manager is responsible for managing client relationships and ensuring successful delivery of projects or campaigns. They act as the main point of contact for clients and coordinate between internal departments to meet deadlines and objectives.

 

Core responsibilities include briefing teams, managing budgets, resolving client issues, and spotting growth opportunities. They also contribute to strategic planning and reporting.

 

In agencies, they often juggle multiple accounts. In-house, they manage stakeholder relationships and help deliver key business projects, with progression into senior account or strategy roles.

 

Key responsibilities of an account manager.

 

Account managers are responsible for maintaining client relationships and ensuring successful project delivery. Common responsibilities include:

• Managing day-to-day client communication and project oversight

• Preparing and managing project timelines, budgets, and deliverables

• Briefing internal teams and managing expectations between departments

• Tracking campaign performance and ensuring KPIs are met

• Leading client meetings and presenting updates or strategic recommendations

• Managing feedback loops and ensuring accurate implementation

• Supporting renewals, upsells, or additional service opportunities

• Collaborating with creative, digital, and production teams

• Writing reports or contact summaries for internal and external use

• Building long-term client relationships and ensuring satisfaction

This role blends project leadership with relationship management and commercial awareness.

 

Skills and requirements for an account manager.

 

Account managers lead day-to-day client relationships, ensuring campaigns run smoothly. Employers typically look for:

• 3–5 years of experience in account management or client services

• Proven success managing client relationships and campaign delivery

• Ability to manage timelines, deliverables, and expectations

• Strong presentation and written communication skills

• Experience working with internal teams to deliver results

• Confidence in leading client meetings and performance reporting

• Skilled in handling feedback, budgets, and project updates

• Familiarity with marketing, digital, or creative campaign processes

• Organised, proactive, and client-focused

Most account managers come from agency, SaaS, or marketing environments, managing multiple accounts.

 

Average salary for an account manager.

 

In the UK, the average salary for an account manager typically ranges from £35,000 to £50,000, depending on client portfolio, sector, and revenue targets.

• Mid-level account managers tend to earn between £35,000 and £42,000

• Senior account managers managing key clients or large budgets can earn between £43,000 and £50,000

• Commission or bonus structures are common in sales and client services-focused roles

Pay scales higher in London, particularly in tech, digital media, and creative agencies.

 

Career progression for an account manager.

 

An account manager oversees client relationships and delivery. It’s a mid-level role with strong development routes into senior leadership or strategic consultancy. A typical career path:

 

Account executive

 

Coordinates project tasks, status reporting, and client comms.

 

Account manager

 

Owns delivery, builds client relationships, and supports strategic initiatives.

 

Account director

 

Leads multiple accounts or high-value partnerships. Focuses on retention and growth.

 

Director of client services

 

Owns the client department. Aligns outcomes with revenue and business strategy.