MSc Finance and Accounting with CIMA
The MSc Finance and Accounting with CIMA course develops advanced knowledge of finance and accounting and is designed to align with the...
An Account Manager is responsible for maintaining and developing relationships with an organisation's clients. They act as a key point of contact, making sure customers receive a good service while identifying opportunities to retain and grow the account. Account Managers work across industries including technology, marketing, finance, recruitment and professional services. Their role often combines customer service, commercial strategy, problem-solving and sales.
Manage a portfolio of client accounts and maintain regular contact. Understand clients' objectives, challenges and future requirements. Coordinate internal teams to deliver products or services successfully. Identify opportunities to renew, expand or cross-sell services. Resolve problems and maintain high levels of customer satisfaction. Track account performance, forecasts, contracts and revenue targets.
Account Manager salaries depend on industry, experience and the value of the accounts managed. Current UK market data places typical average earnings at around £38,000 per year. Many Account Manager roles also include commission, bonuses or other performance-related pay. Senior, key-account and specialist technology roles can offer significantly higher total earnings.
Most Account Managers work around 37 to 40 hours per week during normal business hours. Additional hours may occasionally be required for important client meetings, deadlines or events. Office, hybrid and remote working are all common. Depending on the role, Account Managers may travel locally, nationally or internationally to visit customers.
Account management is a highly client-facing career. Much of your time will involve meetings, calls and correspondence with customers, combined with internal coordination to make sure commitments are delivered. You may have commercial targets for renewals or account growth. Building trust is therefore important: strong Account Managers understand their clients' businesses and look for solutions that create long-term value rather than focusing only on short-term sales.
There is no single required degree. Employers often recruit graduates from business, marketing, communications and related subjects, although sector-specific knowledge can be equally valuable. It is also common to progress into account management from sales, customer service, business development or junior account roles without a specific degree.
Experience in sales, customer service or client-facing work is particularly useful. Junior positions such as Account Executive, Sales Executive or Customer Success Executive can provide a common route into account management. Experience within the particular industry you want to work in can also strengthen applications because it helps you understand clients' needs and terminology.
Account Managers can progress to Senior Account Manager or Key Account Manager roles, taking responsibility for larger and more strategically important customers. Further progression may include Account Director, Sales Manager, Commercial Manager, Head of Account Management or Sales Director. Skills developed in the role can also transfer into business development, partnerships and customer success.
Build the skills needed for this role with these courses.
Common questions about this role.
Step-by-step guidance on preparing and submitting your university application.
Step-by-step guidance on preparing and submitting your university application.
Learn what qualifications and English levels you’ll need to apply.
Learn what qualifications and English levels you’ll need to apply.
Find essential information on UK student visas, immigration, and ATAS certificates.
Find essential information on UK student visas, immigration, and ATAS certificates.
Understand tuition fees, payment options, and financial requirements before you apply.
Understand tuition fees, payment options, and financial requirements before you apply.
