Burson is the global communications leader built to create value for clients through reputation. With highly specialized teams, industry-leading technologies and breakthrough creative, we help brands and businesses redefine reputation as a competitive advantage so they can lead today and into the future. Burson is part of WPP (LSE/NYSE: WPP), the creative transformation company. Learn more at www.bursonglobal.com.
ABOUT THE ROLE
Fuelled by unique insights, creativity, and deep expertise, the Burson International and Public Affairs team is the UK’s most dynamic force of bright, inquisitive, and bold communications consultants.
When the stakes are highest, we're the trusted advisers organisations turn to. We don't just handle today's complex challenges – we anticipate and shape tomorrow's conversations. From growth-stage disruptors to established giants across tech, energy, financial services and beyond, we move minds and drive change through every available channel.
Our 34 strong team unites political campaigners, journalists, agency specialists and corporate leaders – a powerful mix that generates breakthrough thinking and flawless execution. We pride ourselves on rigorous analysis, agile response and genuine partnership with clients. And we deliver serious results while having serious fun.
As WPP's flagship Public Affairs consultancy, we're redefining the field – fusing classic political engagement with AI-powered insights and creative campaign execution. At our core: razor-sharp political strategy that cuts through the noise.
THE ROLE:
We're seeking a Senior Account Director with the ambition and ability to lead flagship accounts and hunt major new opportunities. You'll drive exceptional client delivery – from granular tactics to visionary strategy.
- Devise and deliver creative and award-winning public affairs strategies for our clients, with a focus on tech, energy or financial services clients, some of these working across borders
- Lead UK stakeholder engagement programmes across national and local stakeholders (including politicians, advisers, civil servants, press, think tanks etc and potentially media and social media too)
- You may either be a generalist practitioner or specialist in a particular sector – we are open to hearing from a wide range of candidates, although tech sector expertise especially useful
- Continually bring fresh ideas to the team in terms of new business and marketing initiatives, and help support the team on our political insight notes shared with clients globally
- Engage with senior leaders both internally and in client situations
- Play a leading role in supporting on new business proposals, in some cases drafting them from scratch
- People and team management – line managing employees and leading on resourcing planning for client account
- Responsible for financial success of accounts; ensuring effective service levels and PO / contract management
ABOUT YOU:
The following elements will support your application:
- Passionate about politics and the media
- Exceptional understanding of the integrated nature of public affairs - taking a broad interest in and understanding of the impact of media and social media in shaping political opinion
- Experience working across consultancy, government, parliament, or an in-house public affairs position.
- Journalism with a public policy angle also welcome
- Tech sector expertise welcome but not essential.
OUR LONDON OFFICE
Burson employs over 450 people in the UK, and our stunning Southwark offices run over two floors as part of the larger WPP Campus, Rose Court. We have access to a beautiful roof terrace with panoramic views across London and a bar/restaurant area, which is a great spot for client meetings and socialising with the wider agency and other WPP OpCo’s.
DE&I
At Burson, diversity, equity and inclusion are not just values; they are strategic imperatives that fuel our future in an industry built on the art of understanding, connecting, and developing relationships. We believe that a diverse workforce is essential for inspiring bold ideas, fostering constructive dialogue and cultivating meaningful experiences that drive innovation and creativity. It also enables our agency to thrive and deliver brilliant work. For more information, visit www.bursonglobal.com.
APPLICATION SUBMISSION STATEMENT
When you click the "Submit Application" button below, this will send any information you add below to Burson. Before you do this, we think it's a good idea to read through our Recruitment Privacy Policy. This explains what we do with your personal data when you apply for a role with us, and, how you can update the information you have provided us with or how to remove it.
Recruitment Privacy Notice: https://www.bursonglobal.com/p/recruitment-privacy-notice
KEY BURSON BENEFITS
- 25 days holiday per year. After 3 years continuous service the entitlement will rise by 1 day per year up to a maximum of 30 days after 7 years
- Flexible Public Holidays – you can swap public holidays for days of personal significance.
- Group life assurance scheme (4x basic salary).
- Discounted dental and travel insurance
- Full access to Headspace app
- Westfield Health Cash Plan
- Matched pension contributions
- Comprehensive private medical care
- Enhanced maternity & paternity schemes (after one years’ service).
At Burson, diversity, equity and inclusion are not just values; they are strategic imperatives that fuel our future in an industry built on the art of understanding, connecting and developing relationships. We believe that a diverse workforce is essential for inspiring bold ideas, fostering constructive dialogue and cultivating meaningful experiences that drive innovation and creativity. It also enables our agency to thrive and deliver brilliant work.
For more information, visit www.bursonglobal.com.
#LI-SF1
When you click the "Submit Application" button below, this will send any information you add below to Burson. Before you do this, we think it's a good idea to read through our Recruitment Privacy Policy. California residents should read our California Recruitment Privacy Notice. This explains what we do with your personal data when you apply for a role with us, and, how you can update the information you have provided us with or how to remove it.
