Job Summary

Within a successful and growing division of a large research business, we seek a driven Account Director. The Account Director ANZ services as a senior member of the team who is responsible for developing client growth strategies and plans. They serve as the primary business contact for existing clients, as well as increasing their own client base, particularly surrounding enterprise clients. They will be responsible for financial targets, account management, client satisfaction and team management within the sales team. This role is expected to consistently provide excellent customer service to our client accounts, as well as represent client’s needs and goals within the organisation. In addition, the role will establish and build close working relationships with clients to present new and existing innovative approaches to sampling, to encourage new and repeat business opportunities. The role perfectly encompasses sales, account management and research.

Role/ Responsibilities

The role incorporates the following elements:

• Developing and executing a client acquisition, growth and retention plan that are focused on financial gains and customer satisfaction
• Leading a client development team
• Stakeholder Management, ensuring we growth, maintain and deliver to our most strategic and biggest clients
• Contribute to the future direction and strategy of the business – mentoring junior staff, supporting, and working as part of senior mgt team
• Responsible for the financial performance of direct reports pipeline and financial growth targets
• Ability to develop and take exciting new offers to client segments that fuels the growth of our business and explore new opportunities within the market
• Liaison with clients to be the face of the business and contribute ideas to brainstorming sessions
• Building a positive ongoing client/account relationship • Reporting on successes and areas needing improvements • Promote and present the company’s products, services, innovations and developments to address client’s objectives
• Providing knowledge of Lightspeed panel, feasibility and pricing approach to clients from the project managers to CEO’s.
• Work on some of the clients briefs to ensure that Lightspeed adds value to the research design and that the proposals are accurately turnaround within a mutually agreed timescale
• Communicate effectively with the client, empathising with their needs and action the appropriate method to meet their requirements and objectives.
• Own account relationships to insure they remain healthy, productive and mutually beneficial, with a goal of securing repeat business and achieving targeted revenues
• Research business opportunities for viable income streams to support the rapid growth of client demand

What you'll get in return

You will have an opportunity to work for a company who are committed to reaching unparalleled heights of innovation, quality and service and our people satisfaction is a top priority.

A very lucrative salary and bonus structure that exceeds market expectations. You will have the opportunity to grow and develop your skills and career in a company that has been experiencing growth. You will have the pride of working for a global company that encompasses a talented team, and provides a connected, nurturing and motivating culture. Lightspeed provides people the flexibility in their everyday working, as well as the opportunity to leave a legacy in shaping the future of the business.

Successful Candidate

• 8 + years selling in market research industry experience;
• Commercial, Business, Marketing or Research degrees ideal;
• Strong people and team management skills
• Ability to develop rapport with client management and maintain strong working relationships.
• Has a successful track record working with sales organisations to achieve and exceed their sales goals;
• Skilled negotiator. Negotiates or mediates discussions competently, making concessions while accomplishing goals and protecting interests;
• Ability to run multiple tasks whilst working in a fast-paced environment; • Excellent communication (both oral and written), attention to detail and followup skills are crucial;
• Must work productively, have the ability to meet deadlines, and possess strong time management skills;
• Adept with Microsoft: Word, Excel, Outlook, PowerPoint
• Must have a knowledge of the Market Research Industry
• Presentation and PowerPoint skills
• Only candidates with the right to work in Australia.

Lightspeed is an equal opportunity employer.