Account Director in London

About Us:At BCD Meetings & Events (BCD M&E), we provide more than meeting and event planning services: we create connections that inspire, motivate and change behavior for our customers. As the world’s most trusted and innovative meetings and events agency, BCD M&E cultivates a culture of people, passion and purpose to drive business forward. Headquartered in Chicago, with locations in 60+ countries across the world, BCD M&E’s team of 2,000+ people are committed to sustainability and driving success for our customers, our business and ourselves. Our values are at the heart of everything we do, and we look for people that want to be a part of something special, can rise to our standards and love to bring their unique perspective to the table.While we can’t guarantee every day will be the best (who can?), we can promise a community of people who genuinely care and lead with empathy, a flexible workplace with awesome perks and challenging work that means something. See what life is about at BCD M&E at bcdme.com/careersAbout the role:We are looking for an Account Director to join our Account Management team. As an integral part of our venue search account management division, you will have the chance to work with an exciting client portfolio of blue-chip companies across a range of sectors. You will be responsible for the retention and strategic development of a number of our key client accounts, driving profitability, growth and evolving our service offering in line and in collaboration with the business and client expectations. Building strong client relationships and leveraging your expertise and knowledge of the industry, you will also play an instrumental role in maximising new business opportunities.Sound like you? Read on!As an Account Director, you will: Create an account strategy to drive sales across the business for owned accounts, ensuring all client activity/development is communicated effectively to the service delivery teams.Plan and conduct regular review meetings with key accounts ensuring continuous improvement opportunities to drive the business forward and ensure stability whilst monitoring client satisfaction and ensure a high level of customer service to all internal and external stakeholdersBuild and maintain internal team relationships by mentoring and supporting the operational teamsDevelop venues/destinations knowledge and industry trends & developments. Attend internal cross training events, familiarisation visits, site inspection, trade press and client events Maintain and develop existing and new customers through appropriate propositions and ethical sales methods, and relevant internal liaison, to optimise quality of service, business growth, and customer satisfaction – including client engagement activity such as roadshows, evening events, networking events, industry event attendance, fam trips and supplier showcases Target new business opportunities and be proactive in recognising growth potential within accounts and recommend effective ways forward for the client to ensure successful long-term, profitable relationships and good solid business growth across all service lines You’re good at: Strong proven experience in client / account management and good knowledge of the meetings and events industry Proven track record on successful client negotiationExperience in managing suppliers, sourcing, and negotiating contract services Highly effective oral and written communication skills, including public speaking, client pitches/presentations and RFP lead and design Ability to lead - setting direction, developing teamwork and collaboration, and achieving results through others Ability to identify customer needs and respond creatively listening to information, asking probing questions, applying knowledge, and determining solutions Competency to manage client relationships-establishing, developing, maintaining client trust and loyalty over time and through changes You might also have: Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications and AI toolsFlexible and proactive approach to work, able to juggle multiple priorities and projects with resilience under pressure and a willingness to travel when requiredGood analytical skills, general understanding of accounting, budget and profit and loss statementsYou should know:This is a hybrid role with time spent in our BCD London office and client offices.Our standard working hours are 9:00am - 5:30pm with an hour breakYou must have the right to work in the UKHow to apply:Click apply now to be consideredTHE PERKSFlexible WorkingWe believe that a flexible working environment is key to getting the best out of our teams. We will support you to work where you need to and when you need to, depending on how you work best.Room to GrowOur line of work and business structure challenge our people in a way that inspires growth, with learning and development built into every role. We give individuals ownership over the direction and speed in which they grow.Everyone has a voiceWe thrive on conversations that spark curiosity and empathy. No matter how big or how small, every voice is heard, considered and respected.Make your moveThe diversity of roles across BCD M&E’s global locations means that our people often find new adventures during their time with us. Join us as a meeting planner role in the UK, stay for a global marketing career — there’s always room to move.We’ve got you coveredOur extensive benefits include comprehensive healthcare, retirement plans, continued education support, diverse work locations, travel and hotel discounts, volunteer and sustainability opportunities and a successful employee recognition program.We’re positive. You’ll love it.It starts from the top. Our leaders lead with positivity, believe in our people and trust us to do the right thing. There will always be support along your journey, in little and big ways.#LI-MB1#LI-EM1#LI-LZ1#LI-KW1#LI-Remote#LI-Hybrid #LI-Onsite