What Does a Typical Day Look Like for an Account Executive in Public Affairs?
If you’re thinking about starting a career in public affairs, one of the most common entry-level roles is Account Executive. But what does the job actually involve day to day? Here’s a look at the typical tasks and responsibilities you can expect.
Morning: Monitoring and Briefing
Most days start with keeping clients and colleagues informed. This usually includes:
- Scanning the news for relevant stories.
- Monitoring Parliament for debates, statements or committee hearings.
- Producing briefing notes or daily updates to send to clients.
This work keeps everyone up to date on political and media developments that affect their interests.
Join the Westminster Vacancy Bulletin today. Get all the latest job opportunities delivered to your inbox each week
Mid-Morning: Client Work
After monitoring, you’ll usually move on to supporting client projects. Tasks might include:
- Drafting reports on policy issues.
- Preparing stakeholder maps.
- Helping write consultation responses.
- Supporting the team with campaign planning.
At junior level, you’ll be asked to gather information, draft materials and provide background research.
Afternoon: Meetings and Coordination
Account Executives often join client calls or internal meetings. You might:
- Take notes and prepare action points.
- Update trackers or project timelines.
- Brief senior colleagues on progress.
This is where organisation and attention to detail really matter.
Late Afternoon: Media and Digital Tasks
Public affairs increasingly overlaps with communications. Depending on the client, you could:
- Draft social media content.
- Support press office activity.
- Track media coverage of a campaign.
Agencies value juniors who can work confidently across both political and media tasks.
Ongoing: Admin and Team Support
Part of being an Account Executive is ensuring everything runs smoothly. That can mean:
- Keeping databases and contact lists updated.
- Handling logistics for events or meetings.
- Proofreading documents before they go to clients.
Though not always glamorous, this is essential experience that helps you learn how agencies operate.
Skills You’ll Develop
As an Account Executive, you’ll quickly build skills in:
- Political awareness — understanding how decisions are made.
- Communication — writing clearly and presenting information.
- Organisation — balancing multiple projects at once.
- Teamwork — supporting colleagues and clients effectively.
These skills create the foundation for progression into more senior roles.
Final Thoughts
A day in the life of an Account Executive is busy, varied and full of learning opportunities. From monitoring the news to joining client calls, you’ll be developing the knowledge and skills that underpin a successful career in public affairs.
👉 Looking to start your career as an Account Executive? Westminster Search works with agencies and organisations across the sector. Get in touch to find out about current opportunities.
Join the Westminster Vacancy Bulletin today. Get all the latest job opportunities delivered to your inbox each week