Barrows is looking for an inspiring and strategic Managing Director to lead client partnerships, agency growth, and team development. This role is ideal for a senior leader with a deep understanding of the retail and CPG landscape who is passionate about building brands, growing businesses, and empowering teams to do their best work.
As Managing Director, you’ll guide new client relationships, shape agency vision, and help translate shopper and commerce insights into impactful solutions. You’ll work closely with cross-functional leads to ensure teams are supported, resources are aligned to business needs, and clients receive exceptional service that drives measurable impact. In addition to team leadership and client delivery, you will help champion agency thinking, culture, and new opportunities for growth.
Responsibilities
Client Leadership & Growth
- Oversee key client relationships, with a focus on strategic partnership, long-term planning, and category expertise.
- Lead new client transitions and ensure early engagements are set up for success with clear goals, collaborative ways of working, and aligned expectations.
- Help shape strategic narratives and solutions that align client needs with evolving shopper trends and agency strengths.
Team Management & Collaboration
- Lead and support cross-functional teams, fostering collaboration between account, strategy, creative, and production disciplines.
- Act as a mentor and culture champion; developing team talent, maintaining morale, and ensuring clear communication across all levels.
- Help manage business resourcing needs, working with department leads to prioritize client needs and talent alignment.
Business Development & Agency Growth
- Work closely with executive leadership to identify and pursue new business opportunities, whether through pitch leadership or organic client growth.
- Contribute to proposal development, presentation strategy, and consultative selling grounded in commerce and shopper insight.
- Represent the agency as a trusted voice in client meetings, industry events, and leadership forums.
Strategic Influence & Thought Leadership
- Bring a sharp understanding of the commerce and retail landscape, translating trends into actionable client guidance and agency IP.
- Contribute to the agency’s strategic direction, service evolution, and point of view within the industry.
- Serve as a visible and credible leader both inside and outside the agency, someone who inspires confidence and builds trust.
