Account Manager - Automotive Industry

Manager to serve as the primary on-site liaison for an OEM automotive client in the Detroit metro area. This is a unique opportunity to work at the intersection of automotive marketing, dealer programs, and promotional strategy within a stable, family-owned organization that serves some of the world's leading manufacturers.

In this role, you will act as the critical bridge between the client and a dedicated off-site operations team, managing promotional initiatives, coordinating program launches, and ensuring seamless execution of dealer marketing and incentive campaigns. You'll have direct exposure to senior leadership, presenting strategic insights and recommendations in a C-suite format while navigating a fast-paced, dynamic environment where adaptability and relationship management are essential.

This is not a sales role – rather, it's a strategic relationship and program management position ideal for automotive marketing professionals who excel at client service, cross-functional collaboration, and operational excellence.

Client Liaison & Relationship Management

• Serve as the primary on-site point of contact for the automotive client, managing all operational program flows and ensuring effective communication and issue resolution
• Build and maintain strong relationships with client representatives, vendors, and agency partners to support successful program execution
• Participate actively in meetings with key stakeholders at client headquarters, offering insights and recommendations for program enhancements

Program Coordination & Execution

• Define, coordinate, and oversee ongoing promotional initiatives for dealer programs, ensuring alignment with client strategic objectives
• Translate client requirements into actionable tasks for the off-site operations team, IT department, and management
• Identify and address daily operational challenges, providing prompt and effective solutions
• Manage the design, coordination, implementation, and communication of program guidelines and training materials

Analysis & Strategic Support

• Analyze business data and monitor industry trends to support informed decision-making
• Create in-depth diagnostics to support the client's promotional spending and sales objectives
• Lead discussions with divisional personnel to define customized reporting needs that enhance analysis and promotional effectiveness
• Provide comprehensive account management support, including internal status reporting, program insights, and quality control reviews

Project Leadership

• Serve as Project Lead for all client initiatives, including generating project specifications, mockups, and proposals
• Coordinate program launches and system updates with operations and IT teams
• Assist in the development of training materials for client sessions, including field and dealer meetings

Requirements

Education & Certifications

• Bachelor's degree in Marketing or related field, and/or Project Management or comparable certification

Professional Experience

• Minimum 5 years of Account Management experience
• Minimum 2 years in Automotive Marketing/Advertising sector
• Minimum 2 years in Project Management

Technical Skills

• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Ability to create diagnostics and reporting; translate requirements into tasks for operations and IT teams

Core Competencies

• Strong customer service orientation with excellent communication and interpersonal abilities
• Exceptional planning and organizational skills
• Ability to thrive in a high-speed environment while managing multiple projects simultaneously
• Flexibility and resilience in a dynamic, high-pressure environment
• Self-motivated and resourceful with creative problem-solving skills
• Positive, proactive attitude with a goal-driven mindset

Preferred Qualifications

• Project Management Professional (PMP) or comparable certification
• Tier III dealer advertising co-op/compliance knowledge and/or experience
• Experience leading customized reporting discussions to enhance promotional effectiveness
• Comfortable delivering formal presentations to diverse audiences, including senior leadership
• Familiarity with brand messaging and communication strategies
• Strong understanding of dealer advertising and promotional strategies

Benefits

Base Salary
$70,000 – $75,000 annually (commensurate with experience)

Bonus Structure
Annual bonus potential tied to company and individual performance

Benefits

• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• 401(k) retirement plan
• 9 paid holidays per year, with occasional additional days depending on calendar

Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

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Note: This job posting may be for a position with Keller Executive Search or one of our clients. The specific employer will be identified during the application and interview process. Employment laws and requirements may vary depending on the employer and location.