Account Director

OverviewVML is a leading creative company that combines brand experience, customer experience, and commerce, creating connected brands to drive growth. The agency works with blue chip client partners and is recognized by the Forrester Wave™ across multiple categories. VML’s global network is powered by 26,000 people across 55+ markets with principal offices in key cities worldwide. VML is a WPP agency.VML is looking for a strong leader, thinker, and problem solver with senior-level account experience. You are accustomed to building robust long-term client relationships, value collaboration, and thrive in a close-knit team.The Account Director, Retail will play a key role in day-to-day relationships with a key automotive client, acting as a strategic partner and primary point of contact in the Quebec market. You will oversee the delivery of integrated national retail campaigns and ensure all work aligns with the client’s commercial and brand objectives. The role requires a blend of strategic thinking and hands-on management of complex, multi-channel initiatives in English and French, across retail and other touchpoints including brand, digital, and dealer/network communications.We foster a vibrant culture that values current ideas, trends, and behaviors. VML’s culture is described as vibrant, bright, and energetic.Key ResponsibilitiesClient Leadership & StrategyServe as the senior client partner in Quebec, building strong, trusted relationships with marketing and business stakeholders at multiple levels.Work with integrated teams on annual and quarterly planning: translate client business goals (e.g., model launches, sales targets, dealer performance) into clear marketing and communications strategies.Understand automotive market dynamics, customer journeys, and competitor activity to inform strategic recommendations.Challenge and inspire the client with proactive thinking, insights, and opportunities for innovation.Business Management & GrowthIdentify and convert opportunities to grow the account (new projects, additional channels, regional rollouts, dealer programs, etc.).Ensure the agency team delivers high-quality work on time and on budget.Campaign & Project OversightOversee development and delivery of integrated national retail campaigns. Lead adaptation of all brand, digital, social, and dealer/local marketing for QC market.Manage complex campaign calendars, including quarterly sales events and tactical promotions.Ensure clear briefs, robust timelines, and seamless coordination between internal teams.Monitor performance and optimize: collaborate with analytics/data teams to evaluate campaign effectiveness and recommend improvements.Team Leadership & CollaborationWork directly with the Managing Director on the business to exceed client needs.Mentor and develop Account Supervisors/Managers in the retail practice for Montreal and Toronto offices, fostering a high-performance, collaborative culture.Align with strategy, creative, media, and production leads to deliver integrated solutions.Represent the account in the Montreal Office, ensuring client needs are understood across disciplines.Lead meetings and briefs; act as the go-to lead on integrated retail programs.Quality & Brand StewardshipSafeguard the client’s brand across all touchpoints, ensuring adherence to brand guidelines and regulatory requirements (including automotive-specific legal considerations).Maintain an understanding of the client’s product range, technologies, and key selling points (e.g., safety, connectivity, EV/ICE range, sustainability).Ensure end-to-end customer experience from media exposure to dealer and digital touchpoints.Experience & SkillsRequired Experience & Skills7+ years of account management/client services experience, ideally within an advertising, marketing, or digital agency environment. 1–2 years in a director-level capacity is a plus.Experience managing automotive or other complex, multi-location retail clients (OEMs, importers, dealer networks, or similar).Proven track record of leading integrated accounts and delivering measurable business results.Demonstrated success in managing multi-market/regional accounts.Skills & CompetenciesStrong strategic thinking: connect business objectives to brand and communication strategies.Excellent client management and relationship-building skills, with the ability to manage senior stakeholders and challenging situations.Strong project and workflow management skills, comfortable with complex timelines and multiple workstreams.Confident presenter; bilingual in English and French with strong written and verbal communication skills in both languages.Ability to lead and inspire teams; proven mentoring experience.VML is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering a culture of respect in which everyone belongs and has equal opportunities to progress in their careers.We have a hybrid work approach with teams in the office an average of four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, discuss with the hiring team during the interview process.When you click "Submit Application", this will send any information you add to VML. Please review our Recruitment Privacy Policy. California residents should read our California Recruitment Privacy Notice. #J-18808-Ljbffr