Brand Manager vs. Account Manager: What Are the Differences?

Brand managers and account managers are both important positions within the business world. If you’re interested in a career in marketing or advertising, understanding the similarities and differences between these two job titles can help you decide which is the best fit for you. In this article, we discuss the duties of brand managers and account managers, compare and contrast the two positions and offer tips for pursuing a career in marketing.

What is a Brand Manager?

Brand Managers are responsible for developing and executing marketing plans to build brand awareness and sales. They work with advertising, market research, product development, public relations and sales teams to ensure that all company initiatives are aligned with the overall brand strategy. Brand Managers also develop pricing strategies to maximize profits and market share. They track sales data and consumer trends to identify opportunities and areas for improvement. Brand Managers typically have a bachelor’s degree in marketing, business or a related field.

What is an Account Manager?

Account Managers are responsible for maintaining and growing relationships with existing clients. They work closely with clients to understand their needs and develop solutions that meet those needs. Account Managers also work with sales and marketing teams to develop and implement strategies to increase sales and grow the client base. They keep track of client interactions and sales data to identify trends and areas for improvement. Account Managers typically work in office environments and have regular contact with clients, sales teams and other managers.

Brand Manager vs. Account Manager

Here are the main differences between a brand manager and an account manager.

Job Duties

Job duties for brand managers and account managers can differ based on the company they work for and the clients they manage. Typically, a brand manager will oversee the development of a product or service from start to finish. This can include researching target customers, defining a brand’s identity and creating marketing campaigns. An account managers assists brand managers by communicating with clients, providing customer feedback and sharing information about products and services.

An account manager typically focuses more on client-related tasks, such as maintaining client relationships and ensuring that products and services are delivered on time and at an acceptable quality. They may also be responsible for reporting back to the brand manager regarding client feedback and concerns.

Job Requirements

Brand managers typically need a bachelor’s degree in business administration, marketing or another related field. Some employers prefer candidates to have a master’s degree as well, but it is not required for entry-level positions. Additionally, many brand managers pursue certifications through the American Marketing Association (AMA) or the Institute of Certified Professional Managers (ICPM). These organizations offer training programs that teach professionals how to use marketing software and other tools they might need on the job.

Account managers usually need at least a bachelor’s degree in business administration, marketing or another related field. However, some employers may prefer candidates who have a master’s degree. Additionally, many account managers pursue certifications through the American Marketing Association (AMA) or the Institute of Certified Professional Managers (ICPM). These organizations offer training programs that teach professionals how to use marketing software and other tools they might need on the job.

Work Environment

Account managers typically work in an office setting, but they may travel to meet with clients and attend conferences. They also spend time on the phone or emailing clients about their needs and concerns. Brand managers often work in an office environment as well, but they may also visit manufacturing facilities or other locations where products are made. They may also travel for business purposes, such as attending trade shows or visiting retail stores.

Skills

Both brand managers and account managers need to have excellent communication skills. Brand managers need to be able to communicate the goals of their campaigns to their team, as well as sell the ideas to clients. Account managers need to be able to build relationships with their clients, understand their needs and communicate those needs to the appropriate team members.

Brand managers also need to have strong organizational skills to keep track of deadlines, budget restrictions and multiple campaigns at one time. They also need to be able to think creatively to develop new marketing strategies. Account managers need to have similar organizational skills to keep track of their clients’ accounts, as well as any projects or deadlines associated with those accounts. They also need to be able to problem-solve quickly and efficiently to address any issues that may arise.

Salary

Brand managers earn an average salary of $83,855 per year, while account managers earn an average salary of $75,495 per year. Both of these salaries can vary depending on the size of the company, the industry in which you work and the level of experience you have.