Account Director (Medical Education - Publications)

Who We Are:

At VML, we are a beacon of innovation and growth in an ever-evolving world. Our heritage is built upon a century of combined expertise, where creativity meets technology, and diverse perspectives ignite inspiration. With the merger of VMLY&R and Wunderman Thompson, we have forged a new path as a growth partner that is part creative agency, part consultancy, and part technology powerhouse. 

Our global family now encompasses over 30,000 employees across 150+ offices in 64 markets, each contributing to a culture that values connection, belonging, and the power of differences.  Our expertise spans the entire customer journey, offering deep insights in communications, commerce, consultancy, CRM, CX, data, production, and technology. We deliver end-to-end solutions that result in revolutionary work. 

 

What we are looking for:

VML is seeking a highly motivated and experienced Account Director to lead and inspire our Medical Affairs team. This role requires a deep understanding of the healthcare landscape, particularly medical affairs and publications. The ideal candidate will be a strategic thinker with a proven track record of successfully managing client relationships, overseeing budgets, and mentoring teams. We are looking for someone who connects meaningfully with clients and colleagues, approaches challenges positively, and includes others purposefully to foster a collaborative and inclusive environment.

What You'll Do:

• Lead and manage a team of client engagement staff, focusing on delivering transformative medical affairs programs, specifically publications projects.
• Serve as the primary liaison between clients, healthcare professionals, and expert authors, coordinating journals and congresses.
• Oversee day-to-day account activities, ensuring alignment with client business objectives.
• Manage the publication process, including timelines, budgets, and communication with authors, journals, and congresses.
• Utilize publications management systems (iEnvision or PubStrat) to track progress and ensure timely completion.
• Identify and recruit authors through research and networking.
• Develop proposals, estimates, and presentations for client meetings.
• Collaborate with internal teams (editorial and medical staff) to ensure scientific accuracy and client needs are met.
• Mentor and develop junior staff members, fostering growth and greater responsibility.
• Leverage successful programs and client relationships to expand business within assigned accounts.
• Participate in new business activities, including RFPs and pitches.

Who You Are:

• You are a highly collaborative and strategic leader with a passion for healthcare communications.
• You excel at building strong client relationships, inspiring teams, and managing complex projects.
• You are adaptable, proactive, and possess a strong commitment to continuous improvement.
• You approach challenges with a positive attitude and include others purposefully to create a supportive and inclusive team environment.

What You'll Need:

• 4+ years of industry experience, including at least 2 years in medical education, publications, or medical affairs at an agency or pharmaceutical company.
• Strong technical skills (Word, PowerPoint, Excel).
• Proven team management experience.
• Experience with iEnvision, Datavision, PubStrat, or similar publications management platforms is a plus.
• CMPP certification is a plus.
• Willingness to travel as needed

What We Offer:

• Passionate, driven people: We champion a culture of people who do extraordinary work.
• Consciously cultivated culture: We aim to embody the behaviors to build an inclusive community that is in it together, bringing both positivity and active listening into the workplace as we simultaneously strive to empower creative bravery.
• Competitive benefits: What we offer full-time hires ranges from the full spectrum of group health coverage options (medical, dental, vision) to a generous 401k match (100% dollar-for-dollar match, up to 5% of salary contribution), and a variety of paid time off offerings that reflect our investment in all aspects of your overall life balance and wellness.
• Growth-minded opportunities: We aim to nurture a culture of real-time feedback, a growth-oriented mindset, and plenty of training opportunities through VML and WPP so you can continue to grow personally and professionally.

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 VML is an equal opportunity employer and considers applicants for all positions without regard to race, color, religion or belief