Senior Account Executive, Financial Services Communications

Daniel J. Edelman•Chicago, NY

5d•$70,000 - $83,000

About The Position

Edelman Smithfield is seeking a strategic, detail-oriented Senior Account Executive with financial services communications experience. The role supports client service, project execution, media relations, and strategic communications for financial services clients, with a focus on delivering high-impact results. The successful candidate will understand industry dynamics and the stakeholders and evolving landscape of private capital firms, hedge funds, asset and wealth managers, investment and commercial banks, fintech companies, real estate investors, insurers, and other institutional market participants. The position involves leading communications strategies, serving as a client contact, developing client and industry knowledge, and providing strategic recommendations. It also includes media counsel and engagement, creation of thought leadership and other communications materials, project management, mentorship of junior colleagues, collaboration on integrated campaigns, and support for new business development. The listed annual salary range is $70,000–$83,000. Pay within the range depends on factors including education, qualifications, experience, skills, seniority, location, performance, travel requirements, and organizational needs. Other rewards may include annual bonuses, paid time off, and region-specific benefits. DJEH offers medical and dental insurance, vision insurance, a 401(k), life and disability insurance, paid time off, travel assistance, and wellness programming.

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in political science, business, journalism, or communications, or equivalent work experience.
At least 2 years of experience in corporate communications, financial services, or public relations; agency experience is preferred.
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, including the ability to develop strategic messaging and thought leadership content.
Strong project management skills and a proactive, detail-oriented, results-driven approach.
Ability to work effectively in fast-paced, high-pressure environments while managing multiple priorities.

Nice To Haves

Experience in financial communications and a strong understanding of financial institutions, hedge funds, private equity, venture capital, and alternative assets.
Strong media relations expertise, established journalist relationships, and a demonstrated ability to secure high-impact media coverage.
Experience in an agency setting.

Responsibilities

Lead communications strategies for financial services clients, tailoring messaging and engagement.
Serve as a client contact and ensure consistent, high-quality communication.
Assist in creating and executing communications plans and strategies aligned with client objectives.
Develop a deep understanding of clients’ businesses, stakeholders, and industry landscapes, and use that knowledge to provide strategic recommendations.
Support senior leadership in identifying and mitigating challenges and ensuring client satisfaction.
Work with leadership to develop media engagement strategies and maintain and leverage relationships with financial journalists, producers, and influencers.
Create thought leadership content, including op-eds, speeches, corporate messaging, and media materials.
Provide proactive and reactive media counsel and help ensure message alignment and positioning.
Translate complex financial and regulatory topics into clear narratives for media, investors, and other stakeholders.
Contribute to projects from inception to completion, ensuring timeliness, quality, and budget adherence.
Oversee junior team members’ work and provide mentorship, feedback, and guidance.
Collaborate with internal teams to develop integrated communications campaigns.
Support new business development through proposal development, pitch preparation, and research.