Account Manager Job Description: The Role, Accountabilities and Person Specification

Ever found yourself immersed in job descriptions, trying to piece together the ideal candidate profile for your business? We know the feeling! Especially when it comes to defining the role of an Account Manager, things can get a tad complex.

In this blog post, we've assembled a template for an Account Manager job description that you can tailor to fit your organisational needs. Ready to attract top talent? Let's get started.

The Role of an Account Manager

Account Managers are the bridge between a company and its clients. They nurture client relationships, understand their needs, and work strategically to provide solutions that drive mutual growth. They are the vital 'people persons' in the boardroom, ensuring clients feel heard, valued, and well-served.

In the realm of business, Account Managers play an indispensable role. From technology to education, healthcare to retail, these professionals are in high demand across a multitude of industries. Their unique mix of sales acumen, strategic thinking, and people skills makes them an essential asset in driving customer loyalty and business growth.

If you want a deeper dive into the role of an account manager, we have an in-depth post on what does an account manager do.

Account Manager Job Description

Here’s a typical job description for an Account Manager role.

Key Purposes of the Role

• Contribute to the achievement of strategic objectives by supporting the commercial team in achieving their business line objectives.
• Assist with project management tasks such as developing proposals, tender submissions, and managing contract commitments.
• Foster collaborative relationships with employers and government departments to enhance revenues.
• Manage a group of commercial partners, ensuring that clients see the value of their solutions.
• Establish a strong relationship with a select group of new and existing employers that would benefit from a national delivery model.

Key Accountabilities

• Work as part of a motivated, focused commercial sales team, selling innovative skills solutions.
• Take responsibility for collating information, writing, and managing tenders and call-off contracts.
• Account manage a portfolio of accounts to work with them to enhance business opportunities.
• Be accountable for the successful implementation and development of significant national training programmes.
• Manage a small group of corporate partners and ensure their services are effectively presented to clients.

Person Specification

Essential

• Minimum of 3 years experience in a business development role, dealing with senior management.
• Outstanding team-working skills, including effective communication and the ability to meet deadlines.
• Experience in managing tenders.
• Effective time and diary management to ensure KPI achievement.
• Clear and accurate record keeping within a recognised CRM system (e.g. Salesforce).
• A desire to work in a fast-paced environment with changing priorities and deadlines.
• Willingness to go the extra mile and put in additional hours to support colleagues.

Desirable

• Knowledge of winning and deploying large contracts.
• Knowledge of apprenticeships or corporate training.
• Understanding of government tenders.

Remember, this is just a sample, and every job description might differ slightly based on the organisation and their specific needs.

Other Useful Resources

Here are some resources that can provide valuable insight and guidance on becoming and being an account manager:

1. What is an Account Manager? - Want to understand the role of an Account Manager in greater depth? This blog post breaks down the role, responsibilities, skills needed, and much more. Get your detailed insight here.
2. Account Manager CV Guide - A winning CV can be your golden ticket to securing that coveted Account Manager role. Learn how to tailor your CV to make a lasting impression on potential employers. Check out our guide here.
3. Account Manager Interview Questions and Answers - We've got a list of common interview questions and the best ways to answer them. Start preparing here.
4. Bolt Jobs Board - Visit our job board here to find the latest Account Manager vacancies in the UK further education and skills sector.
5. Key Skills for Account Managers - This blog post outlines the key skills employers look for when hiring. Brush up on your skills here.