Public relations account executive : Salary and conditions

Work conditions vary within areas of public relations (PR). For example, financial, and business to business (B2B) PR often pays higher salaries than beauty or fashion PR. Some agencies have a much more ingrained long-hours culture than others.

• A typical salary for a PR account executive is likely to be around £19,000.
• Account managers may expect to earn on average around £30,000.
• PR salaries at more senior levels vary from £40,000 for a senior account manager, £45,000 for an account director, £60,000 for a creative director, £80,000 for a Director and £100,000 for a CEO.
• Salaries vary depending on the area of PR and geographical location, but are usually higher in London.
• Some companies offer additional benefits, including medical insurance, gym membership and bonuses. You may also be provided with a laptop, mobile phone and Blackberry.
• Working hours are generally nine to five, but often increase depending on workload. As client deadlines are all-important, PR professionals often work until outstanding jobs have been completed. Press launches, crisis management and pitches all result in long hours.
• Paid overtime is rare, although some consultancies offer time off in lieu for time worked at weekends.
• The job is generally office based, but you may have to attend networking and media events and exhibitions, as well as meetings with clients.
• Self-employment/freelance work is possible, although this is more common for experienced PR professionals.
• Career breaks and secondments are possible. Some PR agencies offer opportunities for unpaid sabbaticals.
• There are more women than men in PR. Men predominate in senior positions, but this is gradually changing.
• PR consultancies exist in most main commercial centres in the UK; however, the majority are based in and around London.
• Dress is usually smart when meeting clients. Some consumer agencies or agencies specialising in youth communications often have a more relaxed dress code.
• The work can be stressful and highly pressurised, for example when meeting tight deadlines, juggling various projects or working on a new business proposal, but it can also be very rewarding.
• Flexibility is important. PR professionals are often expected to network and socialise with clients, the media and colleagues to build and maintain relationships. Your social and working life may become intertwined and the boundaries between them blurred.
• Travel within a working day can be frequent. Absence from home overnight may also be required, as is international travel.