Senior Account Director, Strategy & Crisis

Sunshine Sachs Morgan & Lylis • Los Angeles, CA

7d • Hybrid

About The Position

Sunshine Sachs Morgan & Lylis is a leading global communications agency built to navigate the complexities of a hyper-connected world. We represent the icons and innovators shaping culture—from global heritage corporations and high-growth tech startups to the non-profits, creative legends, and visionary founders who define the global discourse. Our expertise spans the full cultural spectrum. We operate at the intersection of entertainment, social impact, corporate reputation, and consumer lifestyle, executing seamlessly across traditional media, social-first outlets, brand partnerships, and influencer ecosystems. Whether we are navigating complex crisis management, elevating advocacy campaigns, or launching global consumer brands, we are storytellers at our core. You may notice our digital presence is purposefully understated. While our clients are global household names, we believe the best work happens when the spotlight stays firmly on those we represent. We fly under the radar by design - preferring to let our campaigns, and our results, speak for themselves. If you're driven, intentional, and ready to do good, we're ready for you! Sunshine Sachs Morgan & Lylis has an immediate opening for a dynamic Senior Account Director to join our Public Affairs and Crisis practice. We are looking for a modern storyteller with at least 10 years of experience who understands that in 2026, a reputation is won or lost in the social zeitgeist and the digital-first newsroom. You are a seasoned strategist who knows that modern crisis management requires a multi-platform narrative that bridges the gap between high-level policy rooms and the rapid-fire ecosystem of social media. You possess the natural gravitas to counsel CEOs and founders through their most challenging moments, providing the creative vision and tactical precision needed to protect and repair brand integrity in an increasingly transparent world.

Requirements

• At least 10 years of experience in public affairs, crisis communications, or corporate reputation, with a proven track record of leading major national and international accounts.
• At least 4 years of previous management experience.
• Outside-the-box thinker who can set a big-picture strategy and lead a tactical response team.
• Master writer and presenter.
• Ability to translate complex legal or policy issues into compelling narratives.
• Innate curiosity and a desire to help build the future of the agency.
• Thrive in a fast-paced environment.
• Incredibly organized and accountable.
• Excel at managing the financial and administrative health of multiple high-profile accounts, ensuring profitability and long-term client retention.
• Take genuine pride in the quality of your work and are energized by the challenge of bringing stability and clarity to cultural moments in a way that exceeds expectations.

Nice To Haves

• Understands that in 2026, a reputation is won or lost in the social zeitgeist and the digital-first newsroom.
• Knows that modern crisis management requires a multi-platform narrative that bridges the gap between high-level policy rooms and the rapid-fire ecosystem of social media.
• Possesses the natural gravitas to counsel CEOs and founders through their most challenging moments.
• Provides the creative vision and tactical precision needed to protect and repair brand integrity in an increasingly transparent world.
• Knows how to rethink traditional concepts to drive engagement that feels authentic and defensible.
• Excited to work with everyone from major global conglomerates to mission-driven non-profits and startups.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of 360-degree communications strategies for high-stakes public affairs and crisis accounts.
• Bridge the gap between traditional earned media, digital advocacy, and community-led storytelling to ensure every client’s mission is resilient and heard.
• Serve as a trusted advisor to senior leadership, founders, and boards of directors.
• Provide steady, thoughtful counsel through high-pressure situations, legal challenges, and complex industry shifts, using data-driven insights to prove the value of a modern proactive and reactive approach.
• Leverage an elite network of contacts across national news, business, policy, and digital-first outlets.
• Architect narratives that shape public opinion and reach the people who matter most.
• Stay at the forefront of the attention economy.
• Understand how social algorithms, viral sentiment, and emerging digital platforms impact a client’s reputation, and use that knowledge to guide real-time strategy during high-stakes moments.
• Manage and direct multiple account teams, ensuring every campaign is fully integrated with brand strategy and digital creative.
• Translate complex policy issues or corporate challenges into narratives that resonate with the broader public.
• Lead high-stakes new business pitches and craft sophisticated proposals.
• Proactively identify new revenue opportunities and expand the agency’s footprint in the public affairs and social impact sectors.
• Directly manage and empower a team of account leaders, with at least 4 years of previous management experience.
• Build the careers of your staff and maintain a culture of creative excellence under pressure.
• Lead by example in every interaction—prioritizing integrity, transparency, and professional poise with your team, your clients, and the media.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision plans
• 401(k) with matching
• Annual merit-based bonuses
• PTO
• Fertility benefits
• FSA for medical, childcare, and commuter expenses
• Flexible work schedule
• Work from Anywhere program
• Summer Fridays
• Wellness Days
• 4-week sabbatical or trip to celebrate select anniversaries
• Collaborative workspaces
• Rooftops in some offices
• Celebrations
• Networking opportunities
• Community volunteering
• Mentorship program
• Training and mentoring
• Tools for learning and growth
• Training throughout the year on topics for professional growth as well as personal growth
• Teaching workshops structured for each level of the company
• Monthly Meet the Industry series where industry thought leaders provide valuable insider info

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed