An Account Manager is responsible for managing relationships with a company's clients or customers. The main role involves acting as the point of contact between the business and its clients, ensuring their needs are met and looking for opportunities to provide additional products or services. Account Managers often work in industries such as advertising, marketing, finance, and technology. They handle client communications, deliver presentations, negotiate contracts, and work closely with internal teams to deliver projects on time and within budget. Good communication, problem-solving, and organisational skills are key for this role. Account Managers play a vital part in ensuring client satisfaction and keeping business relationships strong.
Account Managers in the UK typically earn between £25,000 and £45,000 per year, with experienced professionals in larger firms earning upwards of £60,000.
As of 2023, there are over 30,000 account management positions advertised annually across the UK, especially in sectors like marketing, finance, and technology.
Many Account Managers are promoted to Senior Account Manager or Account Director roles within 3-5 years, depending on performance and company size.
Focuses on managing client relationships for digital marketing campaigns, including social media, online advertising, and website projects.
Handles the company’s most important clients, ensuring they receive dedicated support and tailored solutions to meet their business needs.
Specialises in managing and growing sales accounts, maintaining regular contact with clients and identifying opportunities to increase sales.
Study business, marketing or a related subject at GCSE and A-level. Consider further education such as a university degree in business, marketing, or communications.
Most employers look for candidates with strong academic backgrounds in business-related fields. GCSEs in English and Maths are commonly required. A-levels or equivalent qualifications in subjects like Business Studies, Economics, or Psychology can be advantageous. Many Account Managers also hold a university degree, though some enter the role through apprenticeships or work experience.
Work on communication, negotiation, and organisational skills through school activities, part-time jobs, or volunteering.
Account Managers need excellent interpersonal skills to build client relationships. Participating in debate clubs, school leadership roles, or customer-facing part-time jobs helps you learn how to communicate effectively and manage multiple priorities. Volunteering in roles where teamwork and organisation are needed will also help prepare you for this career.
Apply for internships, summer jobs, or entry-level positions in sales, marketing, or customer service.
Experience in roles such as Sales Assistant, Customer Service Advisor, or Marketing Intern can provide valuable insights into client management and business operations. Look for opportunities during your school or university holidays, or consider an apprenticeship in sales or marketing. Real-world experience will help you understand the needs of clients and how companies operate.
Attend industry events, join professional organisations, and connect with experienced account managers.
Networking can help you learn from professionals in the field and may lead to job opportunities. Attend local business events, join LinkedIn groups, and consider membership in organisations like the Chartered Institute of Marketing. Building connections early in your career can support your development and help you find a mentor.
Look for junior or assistant account manager positions and tailor your CV to highlight relevant skills and experience.
When you have gained enough experience, seek out entry-level Account Manager positions. Research companies that interest you and apply for roles where your skills match their requirements. Prepare for interviews by practising your communication skills and demonstrating your understanding of client needs and business goals.
Pursue further qualifications or training in account management and keep up to date with industry trends.
Professional development is important for career progression. Consider taking courses in negotiation, project management, or digital marketing. Many Account Managers also work towards professional certifications, such as those offered by the Institute of Sales Management or the Chartered Institute of Marketing. Staying up to date with industry developments will help you progress into senior roles.
Explore relevant apprenticeships that can help you kickstart your career in Account Manager. Apprenticeships offer hands-on experience and training while earning a wage.
An Account Manager typically oversees client relationships and manages accounts within a specific sector. Insurance account managers have similar responsibilities, focusing on managing insurance policies and client accounts, making this role the closest match in terms of qualifications and skills required.
You can get into this job through:
You could take a degree before applying to join a company's management training scheme. Most subjects are accepted but you may have an advantage if you study:
You'll usually need:
You may be able to get into this job by doing an insurance professional higher apprenticeship, or degree apprenticeship for senior insurance professionals.
These take between 24 to 36 months to complete with a mix of workplace learning and study.
You'll usually need:
You could start as an insurance technician, underwriter or junior account handler and work your way up through training and promotion.
You could study for qualifications from the Chartered Insurance Institute (CII).
The CII qualifications offer study units relevant to the insurance areas you specialise in, for example marine, commercial or general insurance. Examples of qualifications include:
You could join the Chartered Insurance Institute for professional development and training opportunities.
You can find out more about working in insurance from the Chartered Insurance Institute and Step Forward.
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