Director, Strategy

About the role

The Director, Strategy will be a critical leader in supporting the growth and execution of Highwire's strategy function. Reporting directly to the EVP, Head of Strategy, the Director will work cross-functionally to design and implement strategic frameworks that solve clients' business, communications and marketing challenges. You will play a pivotal role in collaborating with internal teams and external clients to craft innovative, insight-driven strategies that deliver measurable results. You will guide the thinking of our account and specialist teams across earned media, content, social, influencer and creative, coaching and mentoring them through critical thinking, codifying and conveying their tacit knowledge of clients, industries and competitive landscapes, and working closely with our Insights and Analytics teams to create briefs which surround first-hand knowledge with data-driven insight. Your strategic direction will inform and guide all our work, from the development of overarching creative platforms to deeply integrated channel activation plans. This role will support new business efforts, guide the execution of client engagements, and ensure strategic excellence across the board. The Director, Strategy will partner closely with Highwire's Digital, Strategic Communications, Creative, Analytics & Insights, and Account teams to deliver fully integrated campaigns and grow the strategy function.

Responsibilities

• Strategic Framework Development: Support the creation of experience and engagement strategies that align with clients' business objectives, working with various internal teams (e.g., Creative, Digital, Analytics). Assist in driving the value story for brand experiences and strategic projects, ensuring alignment with client goals and measurable outcomes.
• Client & Account Leadership: Act as a co-leader on key accounts alongside client portfolio leaders, providing strategic counsel and ensuring the successful delivery of client objectives. Lead strategic discovery sessions, gathering insights and experience requirements to develop solutions that meet client needs. Partner with the Highwire Intelligence Group to ensure strategies are grounded in measurable frameworks and can be tracked for performance over time. Build and nurture long-term client relationships, contributing to business growth through exceptional strategy execution and insights.
• New Business & Growth Support: Play a key role in the new business process, helping to develop engagement strategies and craft persuasive pitch narratives that resonate with prospective clients. Work closely with the business development team to pitch new ideas and expand Highwire's client base, focusing on how strategic solutions can drive results. Identify opportunities for innovation within existing client relationships to expand the scope of strategic services.
• Team Mentorship & Development: Mentor and guide junior strategists and team members, helping to elevate their strategic thinking, storytelling, and client engagement skills. Foster a collaborative and empowering team culture, encouraging creativity and innovation while maintaining high standards of execution.
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Partner with cross-functional teams, including Digital, Creative, and Analytics, to ensure the seamless integration of strategy into larger client campaigns and initiatives. Ensure that strategy informs every aspect of client work, from creative ideation to execution, and that each project is aligned with overarching client goals. Work closely with the I&A and account teams to document requirements, gather insights, and develop comprehensive strategic roadmaps.

Requirements

• 6+ years of experience in strategic communications, marketing, or related fields, with a proven track record of leading successful client engagements.
• Demonstrated ability to create strategic frameworks and deliver integrated solutions that address business challenges.
• Strong client-facing skills, with the ability to build and nurture senior-level client relationships.
• Experience working across disciplines, including digital marketing, creative, and analytics, to deliver comprehensive solutions.
• Proven success in supporting new business development, including pitching strategies and driving growth within existing accounts.
• Strong leadership and mentorship skills, with experience developing and guiding junior team members.
• Exceptional communication and presentation skills, with the ability to articulate complex ideas to internal teams and clients.
• Collaborative mindset with experience working in fast-paced, client-driven environments.
• Bachelor's degree in business, marketing, communications, or a related field is preferred.

Benefits

• Medical, dental, and vision coverage
• 401(k) matching
• Generous paid time off
• Additional perks designed to support overall well-being and growth
• Flexible hybrid work model tailored to your schedule and lifestyle