PR Account Executive at Burson in Melbourne, Victoria, Australia

Who we are:
Burson, part of WPP, is the global communications leader built to create value for clients through reputation. With highly specialized teams, industry-leading technologies and breakthrough creative, we help brands and businesses redefine reputation as a competitive advantage so they can lead today and into the future. When you work at Burson, you are part of a global community of lifelong learners who thrive at the edge of innovation.
WPP (LSE/NYSE: WPP) is the trusted growth partner for the world’s leading brands. We unite cutting-edge media intelligence and data solutions, world-class creativity, next-generation production, transformative enterprise solutions and expert strategic counsel in a single company – powered by exceptional talent and our agentic marketing platform, WPP Open, to help our clients navigate change, capture opportunity and deliver transformational growth. For more information, visit WPP.com
For more information visit bursonglobal.com and follow us on LinkedIn and Instagram.
More about the role
We’re looking for an ambitious, curious and highly organised Account Executive to join our Melbourne team.
This is an exciting opportunity to work across a diverse portfolio of corporate and consumer accounts, supporting leading brands and organisations through media relations, corporate storytelling, brand campaigns, thought leadership, issues-led communications and integrated client programs.
As an Account Executive, you will play a core support role within client teams, helping to deliver high-quality work, coordinate projects, manage day-to-day account activity and contribute to strong client outcomes. You’ll work closely with experienced consultants and senior leaders, gaining exposure to a broad range of communications disciplines while building the foundations of a rewarding career in public relations.
This role is ideal for someone with 1 to 2 years’ experience in PR or communications who is proactive, detail-oriented and eager to keep learning. You’ll bring strong writing skills, sound judgement, a genuine interest in media and current affairs, and the confidence to build relationships with clients, colleagues, journalists and other stakeholders.
We’re looking for someone who takes pride in the quality of their work, asks smart questions, enjoys collaborating with others and is motivated by the opportunity to help clients navigate change, build trust and protect reputation.
What you’ll do
Client service and media relations
Support the day-to-day management of corporate and consumer client accounts, helping teams deliver work accurately, efficiently and on time.
Conduct client, competitor, media and industry research to inform communications activity.
Draft a range of written materials, including media releases, pitches, briefing notes, media lists, client updates, reports, social copy and campaign materials.
Build and maintain relationships with journalists across business, trade, consumer, lifestyle and mainstream media.
Develop story angles, identify media opportunities, pitch stories and help coordinate media interviews.
Monitor media coverage, industry developments, emerging issues and cultural trends relevant to client businesses and brands.
Share useful market, media and industry insights with colleagues and clients.
Provide practical problem-solving support on client issues, escalating risks and opportunities appropriately.
Project and business management
Coordinate client activities, events, announcements, campaign moments and stakeholder engagement tasks.
Work with clients, vendors, suppliers and internal teams to help deliver high-quality outcomes.
Manage timelines, coverage trackers, reporting documents, work-in-progress updates and other account administration.
Assist with budget tracking, forecasting, resource planning and billing requirements where required.
Complete timesheets and administrative tasks accurately and on time.
Use agency systems and processes consistently to support quality, efficiency and strong client service.
Look for opportunities to improve team, client and business outcomes.
Team collaboration and culture
Work collaboratively across practices and client teams, demonstrating initiative, independence and accountability.
Support junior team members, interns or work experience students where appropriate.
Contribute ideas and insights to brainstorms, planning sessions and new business opportunities.
Participate in training, professional development and agency initiatives.
Actively contribute to Burson’s inclusive, collaborative and high-performance culture.
Represent Burson positively as an ambassador for the business.
What we’re looking for
1 to 2 years’ full-time experience in public relations, communications, journalism, marketing or a related field.
Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced agency environment.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to adapt your style for different audiences and channels.
A genuine interest in media, current affairs, business, brands, culture and reputation.
Growing expertise or interest in corporate affairs, consumer communications or integrated PR campaigns.
Confidence building relationships with colleagues, clients, journalists and external stakeholders.
Strong research skills and the ability to turn information into useful insights, story angles or client recommendations.
Sound judgement, attention to detail and a proactive approach to problem solving.
A collaborative mindset, positive attitude and willingness to learn.
Experience using media monitoring, media database or project management tools is advantageous but not essential.
What success looks like
In this role, success means you:
Deliver consistently high-quality work.
Anticipate client and team needs.
Communicate clearly, proactively and professionally.
Manage projects effectively and meet deadlines.
Take accountability for your work and follow through on commitments.
Bring curiosity, initiative and fresh thinking to client and team activity.
Build trusted relationships with colleagues, clients and media.
Contribute positively to Burson’s culture and values.
What we offer
At Burson, you’ll have the opportunity to work on some of Australia’s most interesting communications challenges and campaigns while developing your career alongside experienced practitioners.
We offer:
Exposure to a diverse portfolio of corporate and consumer clients, giving you broad experience early in your career.
The opportunity to work with leading brands and organisations on campaigns that shape reputation, influence culture and drive business outcomes.
Access to global learning programs, structured professional development and career pathways across Burson and the broader WPP network.
Access to global tools, insights, research and innovative communications technologies.
A collaborative, inclusive and supportive team environment where Craft, Curiosity, Camaraderie and Counsel are valued.
The chance to learn from experienced communications professionals and contribute to a high-performing Melbourne team.
Flexible working arrangements and a strong commitment to employee wellbeing.
Diversity, equity and inclusion
At Burson, we believe diverse perspectives create stronger ideas and better outcomes. We are committed to creating an inclusive workplace where everyone feels valued, respected and empowered to bring their whole selves to work.
As an Account Executive, you’ll be part of a collaborative, high-performance environment where different backgrounds, experiences and perspectives are welcomed, and where every colleague has the opportunity to learn, contribute and grow.
You belong at Burson:
Our vision is for Burson to be the leading ‘academy company’ for creative communications professionals and emerging leaders. We provide a dynamic environment where ambitious colleagues come to elevate their skills, expand their networks, and ultimately, produce the best solutions for today’s leading brands. Our commitment to your growth is reflected in our robust benefits and people programs, which include professional development opportunities, mentorship programs with industry leaders, a vibrant and inclusive company culture fostering collaboration and innovation and packages designed to reward and retain top talent. We invest in our people because we believe their success is our success.
At Burson, we’re an agency of learn-it-alls. We recognize that the things we do best, creativity and communications, require a level of nuanced understanding. That’s why it’s imperative for us to hire extraordinarily talented people of all backgrounds and identities. Without that we can’t do the essential work of inspiring bold ideas, fostering constructive dialogue, cultivating meaningful experiences, and driving innovation and creativity for our partners. Your unique point of view—your talent—is what makes you a #BursonPerson, and it’s how we deliver exceptional results for our clients, together.
We believe the best work happens when we're together, fostering creativity, collaboration, and connection. That's why we’ve adopted a hybrid approach, with teams in the office around four days a week. If you require accommodations or flexibility, please discuss this with the hiring team during the interview process.
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