Associate Director - Financial Services (Corporate Comms)

A highly regarded, mid-sized communications consultancy is seeking an Associate Director to take on a pivotal role within its growing financial services practice.
This is an opportunity for a commercially minded, intellectually curious communications professional to step into a senior leadership position with genuine influence—both on client outcomes and the future direction of the business.
Why This Role Stands Out
This is not a traditional Associate Director role.
You’ll work directly with senior decision-makers on high-stakes, reputation-defining mandates across the financial services sector—combining strategic advisory, issues management and profile-building work.
You’ll have the autonomy to shape client strategy, the backing of an experienced leadership team, and the platform to build something—whether that’s a practice area, a client portfolio, or your own long-term leadership trajectory.
About the Consultancy
The firm operates at the intersection of corporate communications, reputation management and public affairs, advising clients on complex and often business-critical challenges.
Its client base is deeply embedded in financial services and includes:
  • Alternative investment managers (private credit, private equity, real assets)
  • Asset and wealth managers
  • IFA and distribution platforms
With a senior-led, hands-on approach, the consultancy is known for delivering thoughtful, insight-driven work that goes beyond traditional PR. The environment is collaborative, fast-paced and ambitious—offering real exposure, responsibility and progression.
The Role
As Associate Director, you will act as a trusted advisor to senior clients, leading strategic communications programmes and guiding them through both opportunities and challenges.
You will take ownership of key client relationships, oversee delivery across accounts, and play a visible role in mentoring the next generation of talent within the business.
You’ll also be expected to contribute commercially—identifying opportunities, strengthening networks, and supporting the continued growth of the financial services offering.
What You’ll Be Doing
  • Leading strategic communications programmes for a portfolio of financial services clients
  • Acting as a senior sounding board to clients on positioning, reputation and market dynamics
  • Advising on complex, sensitive and high-profile issues, including crisis and media management
  • Driving quality and consistency across account teams, ensuring delivery is sharp, timely and impactful
  • Building strong, lasting client relationships and becoming a go-to advisor
  • Coaching and developing team members, creating an environment where people can perform at their best
  • Expanding your external network across media, investors and industry stakeholders
  • Supporting new business activity and contributing to the firm’s growth strategy
What They’re Looking For
  • A strong background working across a portfolio of financial services clients within a reputable communications agency
  • Experience spanning areas such as private markets, asset management or wealth management
  • The credibility and confidence to operate as a senior advisor to clients
  • A strategic mindset, with the ability to translate complex issues into clear, compelling narratives
  • Experience handling sensitive reputational challenges and working closely with media
  • A natural leader—someone who can motivate teams, build trust and elevate performance
  • Strong industry and media relationships
  • Commercial instinct and an interest in contributing to business growth
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
The Offer
  • Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package
  • Hybrid and flexible working model
  • Clear progression path with scope to shape your role
  • Exposure to high-profile, intellectually engaging work
  • A collaborative, supportive team with strong retention and culture
  • Investment in your long-term development and leadership trajectory
Why Now?
The consultancy is entering a new phase of growth, with increasing demand from financial services clients.
For the right individual, this is a chance to step into a role with real visibility, influence and headroom—where you can make a tangible impact while accelerating your own career.