KARLA OTTO | Account Director, Digital Marketing

Karla Otto is a renowned communications and marketing agency with offices across 15 locations in the UK, EMEA, US and Asia. Established in 1982 by Karla Otto herself, the agency has since grown to become a global leader in luxury, representing some of the most prestigious brands in multiple categories.

In 2017, Karla Otto and K2 merged to form The Independents, a global group of agencies for industry leaders across luxury and lifestyle. Currently this group comprises of Bureau Betak & Bureau Future, Karla Otto, K2, The Qode, Lefty, Prodject, CTZAR, Atelier ATHEM, Atelier LUM, INCA Productions, Kennedy, Sunshine, BUREAU BÉATRICE and Kitten.

This role will sit within KITE, a specialist division established to position global companies, brands & products in the luxury lifestyle segment, through holistic marketing & communications that balances a creative and business mindset. This division is based in London, servicing clients internationally.

Our network of expert strategists, creatives, marketeers and publicists work tirelessly to deliver exceptional results and establish long-term partnerships with our clients. We are passionate about the world of lifestyle and luxury, with everyone bringing their unique expertise and insights to the table. We are driven by a shared commitment to excellence and a deep understanding of the ever-evolving industry landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day communication with clients on all aspects of digital marketing projects, offering strategic and project-level consultation while troubleshooting challenges.
• Collaborate with the team’s Strategists, Producers, PR, and Creatives to execute activations seamlessly, ensuring tasks, timelines, client and budgets are managed efficiently. Also ensure client processes are adhered to.
• Work with the digital team’s Director on developing and implementing innovative digital marketing strategies that align with client goals and Karla Otto’s vision.
• Consult on, and manage, organic and paid talent partnerships (VIP, Influencer & KOL), including strategic casting and implementation.
• Oversee the junior team’s digital tasks, including:
• Manage and mentor the digital team by assigning tasks, setting priorities, and ensuring deliverables meet proposals and client deadlines. Conduct regular check-ins to monitor progress, address challenges, and provide constructive feedback. Tasks may include:

– Talent and influencer management (sourcing, contracting, and building target lists).

– Social media content projects with a focus on creative input and production.

• Stay ahead of digital marketing trends, tools, and best practices alongside the junior team to ensure Karla Otto remains competitive and forward-thinking.
• Enhance client services by refining the digital marketing team’s offerings and frameworks.
• Oversee the preparation and presentation of client reports, including campaign performance, insights, and actionable recommendations.
• Utilize Karla Otto’s analytics tools (e.g. Letfy) to evaluate ROI and refine strategies.
• Support business growth by identifying new opportunities, pitching to prospective clients, and strengthening relationships with existing ones.
• Assist in business development tasks by:

– Identifying growth opportunities and building relationships with new clients.

– Participating in client pitches and presentations.

– Demonstrating thought leadership and expertise in digital marketing.

– Developing proposals and strategies to expand Karla Otto’s client portfolio.

Key Attributes

• Bachelor’s degree in Marketing, Communications, Business, or a related field.
• 6+ years of experience in digital marketing, including 2+ years in a leadership role within an agency or similar environment.
• Proven expertise in digital marketing strategies, including social media, paid media, content marketing, and analytics.
• Strong leadership and team management skills with a track record of mentoring and motivating junior staff.
• Ability to manage multiple clients and projects concurrently at an expert level, including proposal writing, negotiation, implementation, reporting, and invoicing.
• Exceptional presentation and communication skills with the ability to build and maintain strong client relationships.
• Data-driven mindset with the ability to interpret metrics and translate insights into actionable strategies.
• Proficient in digital marketing tools such as Google Analytics, Meta Ads Manager, and HubSpot (or similar tools).
• Creative and independent thinker with a strong understanding of global trends in luxury, lifestyle, and complementary industries (e.g. music, art).
• Excellent organizational and time management skills, with meticulous attention to detail.
• Ability to network on behalf of clients and foster meaningful relationships.
• Comfortable in dynamic, fast-paced environments and excels as a collaborative team player.
• Willingness to learn, adapt, and support senior team members on various tasks.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office programs, including PowerPoint and Excel.

As an equal opportunities employer, Karla Otto is committed to the equal treatment of all current and prospective team members and does not condone discrimination on the basis of age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity, or marriage and civil partnership. We aspire to have a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage suitably qualified applicants from a wide range of backgrounds to apply and join our team!