What does a Key Account Manager do?
My role is to work alongside our customers (usually with their marketing department) to collaborate and develop innovative solutions for their various print projects.
What does your average day look like?
Every day is different and is dependent on customer project cycles. An average day consists of handling new enquiries, proactively making suggestions for future campaigns and having a regular review with customers to ensure that projects go smoothly.
I could be travelling to one of our customers sites to measure up for a project or to drop off a prototype.
I’m also no stranger to rolling up my sleeves and helping out in the warehouse on the various fulfilment jobs we undertake to ensure we hit tight deadlines.
It’s useful that I also have an understanding of the studio side of the business so I can advise in this area too.
In addition, I need to keep up to date with latest trends, print technologies and go to relevant events in order to do this.
How long have you been with the company and what do you enjoy about working here?
I will have been with the company for 10 years in August!
Before I joined Birch, I hadn’t worked in print before, but I thoroughly enjoy all the opportunities and challenges that print presents. I have learnt so much and love using that knowledge to solve problems for our customers.
What account do you mainly work with? What’s that like?
My main account is the DPD group, which is an exciting challenge to lead. There is a tremendous synergy in the way we both operate in a service-led, as opposed to price-led way but whilst also being able to prove great value for money.
What are the benefits and challenges of the role?
There’s a lot of variety in this role which is a huge plus for me, and I really enjoy being able to solve our customers problems with creative solutions. We live in a very ‘instant’ society so it can sometimes be a real challenge to manage customer’s expectations and timescales. Ultimately though, it’s a very rewarding role and those who know me well will know that I am indeed living my best life!
If you weren’t doing this, what would you be doing?
A rocket surgeon!
