KARLA OTTO · 1 day ago
Account Director, Design and Lifestyle
Buffalo-Niagara Area
Full-time
Onsite
Senior Level
$100K/yr - $120K/yrKarla Otto is a globally recognized public relations and communications agency specializing in fashion, design, beauty, lifestyle, arts, and culture. They are seeking an Account Director, Design & Lifestyle to develop strategic design-focused PR programs, cultivate relationships within the design community, and lead a team to elevate brand visibility and drive commercial impact.
Public Relations
Responsibilities
Develop and execute strategic design-focused PR programs that elevate brand visibility and drive commercial impact through product launches, studio announcements, showroom openings, and experiential moments tied to the design calendar
Cultivate and maintain deep relationships with design, architecture, and interiors editors, journalists, digital platforms, and tastemakers to secure top-tier coverage, awards, and long-lead placements
Serve as a trusted brand ambassador within the design community, representing clients across press previews, trade fairs, industry events, and key cultural moments
Build strong, consultative client partnerships by delivering thoughtful PR strategy, trend intelligence, and creative storytelling aligned with each brand’s design ethos and business goals
Lead and mentor Account Managers, Coordinators, and Assistants, fostering a collaborative, detail-driven, and creatively ambitious team culture
Oversee the planning and execution of high-impact design moments, including press previews, showroom installations, influencer walk-throughs, and strategic industry collaborations
Stay at the forefront of design trends, market shifts, and cultural conversations, translating insights into compelling narratives and proactive media opportunities
Support agency growth by identifying new opportunities, contributing to new business pitches, and leveraging design-media relationships to elevate emerging and established brands
Evaluate campaign performance using qualitative storytelling impact and quantitative media metrics, ensuring programs meet client objectives and deliver meaningful ROI
Champion a high-performing, inclusive team environment that prioritizes mentorship, continuous learning, creative excellence, and innovation
Qualification
Required
Extensive and proven experience in a senior PR role within Lifestyle, Design, Culture and Arts
Strong managerial and organizational skills
In-depth understanding of and active interest in hospitality, lifestyle, luxury and wellness trends
A responsive and understanding approach to client management
Creative and strategic thinker
Able to identify communication opportunities through a proactive approach
Proven experience of working in a fast-paced environment and ability to work to tight deadlines
Excellent time management skills and ability to prioritize
Discrete, professional and articulate, with excellent communication skills
Experience managing direct reports/teams including their professional development
Extremely well-organized, methodical and efficient, with a good dose of common sense and initiative
Excellent writing and presentation skills
A visionary and opportunistic approach to new business development
Benefits
Medical, Dental, and Vision plans
401K Employer Match program
Commuter Benefits
Paid Time Off including Vacation Days, Personal Days, Sick Days, and additional Comp Days
Company-wide closure last week of the year
10 Federal Holidays Observed
Company
KARLA OTTO
Karla Otto is an international public relations and brand strategy agency.
Founded in 1982
201-500 employees
Funding
Current Stage
Growth StageTotal Funding
unknown2017-09-07Acquired
Company data provided by crunchbase