Senior Account Manager, Public Relations (Cybersecurity)

Senior Account Managers on our Cybersecurity team lead integrated communications programs for some of the most influential companies in the cybersecurity sector. They bring deep experience across areas such as threat intelligence, incident response, data protection, and cloud security, and guide teams in translating complex technical topics into compelling narratives that resonate with business and industry audiences.

In this role, Senior Account Managers oversee multiple account teams, managing both high-level strategy and day-to-day execution across media relations and integrated programs. They ensure communications strategies are forward-thinking, results-driven, and aligned with client business objectives.

Senior Account Managers also play a key leadership role within the agency — mentoring and inspiring team members, contributing to new business development, and helping Highwire deliver exceptional results for cybersecurity clients. Strong writing, strategic thinking, and a deep understanding of the cybersecurity media landscape are essential to success in this role.

Key Responsibilities

Media Relations

• Lead strategic media and analyst relations programs for cybersecurity clients across areas including threat intelligence, incident response, data protection, and cloud security.
• Build and maintain strong relationships with top-tier cybersecurity, technology, and business journalists, as well as key industry analysts.
• Guide account teams in identifying news opportunities, shaping compelling story angles, and executing proactive media outreach.
• Partner with clients to elevate thought leadership through feature coverage, executive interviews, and contributed content.
• Oversee measurement and reporting of media performance to ensure programs deliver meaningful visibility and business impact.

Client Service / Management

• Serve as the day-to-day account lead for up to 5 cybersecurity clients, ensuring exceptional client service and program execution.
• Direct teams of 5–10 members, across various levels, managing workflow, priorities, and team development.
• Provide strategic counsel aligned with each client’s business objectives and cybersecurity-focused goals.
• Build and maintain relationships with key cybersecurity and business media.
• Oversee communications programs from kickoff through goal achievement, ensuring measurable impact.
• Set ambitious yet achievable client goals through creative campaigns and amplification strategies tied to business outcomes.
• Develop and manage monthly and annual budgets, staffing allocations, and team priorities.
• Ensure accurate client billing, expense management, and overall account health.
• Participate in program execution as needed, including writing, media relations, digital communications, and crisis support.
• Serve as an ambassador for the agency and our cybersecurity practice.

Agency Operations

• Contribute to company growth through new business development, organic client expansion, and creation of client case studies.
• Attend networking events, seminars, and conferences relevant to cybersecurity and communications to maintain professional development and build relationships.
• Lead at least one agency-wide training annually and participate in internal trainings as needed.
• Establish and maintain a focus area within agency support, such as digital strategy, thought leadership development, or cybersecurity-specific communications initiatives

Team Development

• Manage up to 2 direct reports, set goals, conduct quarterly check-ins, and deliver annual reviews.
• Act as a coach across account teams by teaching, providing guidance, recognizing achievements, delegating effectively, and mapping work to strategy and client goals.
• Maintain a respectful, enthusiastic, and professional attitude toward coworkers, clients, and external partners.
• Lead by example and ensure teammates have clarity on roles, responsibilities, and cybersecurity client objectives.

Account Leadership

• Deliver high-level account management and strategic counsel for cybersecurity clients.
• Execute integrated communications programs as needed, supporting writing, media relations, digital communications, and crisis efforts.
• Mentor and develop team members, ensuring alignment with agency standards and client objectives.
• Support agency growth through client development, business opportunities, and thought leadership in the cybersecurity sector.

Success Factors

• Minimum of six years of experience in PR, marketing, or communications agencies, with at least one year as an Account Manager.
• Prior experience managing cybersecurity clients in an agency environment.
• Strong understanding of the cybersecurity industry and media landscape.
• Established relationships with cybersecurity, technology, and business media.
• Proven ability to develop and lead communications strategies that drive visibility and credibility for cybersecurity brands.
• Strong writing, storytelling, and strategic thinking skills.
• Experience managing multiple client accounts, budgets, and cross-functional teams simultaneously.
• Track record of mentoring and developing junior staff.
• Organized, proactive, and entrepreneurial mindset.
• Exceptional communication and leadership skills with the ability to inspire teams and deliver measurable results.

The salary range for this position is $90,000 to $125,000, with the final offer based on a combination of factors, including education, relevant experience, skills, prior training, internal equity, and local geographic market data. This role also includes a competitive benefits package with medical, dental, and vision coverage, 401(k) matching, generous paid time off, and additional perks designed to support your overall well-being and growth.