Interactive Account Executive, Video, Audio, and Casual Gaming | Puzzle Verticals

About the Role

Key Responsibilities

• Own end-to-end sales cycle to achieve $5M in sponsorship revenue in the first year, doubling to $10M by year two.
• Identify, prospect, and cultivate relationships with key decision-makers across multiple verticals including Pharma, Financial Services, Automotive, Media, CPG, Technology & Telecom.
• Build a robust pipeline of brand partnerships, premium sponsorships, and custom advertising packages for the multimedia portfolio.
• Develop compelling sponsorship opportunities leveraging the scale of the multimedia portfolio in news, entertainment, sports, and lifestyle verticals.
• Collaborate with cross-functional content teams to craft integrated programs for proactive pitches and RFP responses.
• Serve as the primary point of contact for brand partners, nurturing long-term relationships and maximizing recurring revenue streams.
• Conduct client-facing presentations, proposal development, and quarterly/annual business reviews to demonstrate ROI.
• Manage complex sales cycles including presentations, negotiations, and contract closures.
• Stay ahead of digital advertising trends, sponsor needs, and industry developments, especially in digital video and social media.
• Develop data-driven analysis and recommendations to quantify opportunities and inform internal strategies.
• Maintain accurate records of deal progress, revenue forecasts, and pipeline health in CRM systems.
• Provide regular updates to senior leadership on sales progress, market demand, and strategic recommendations.
• Work closely with Sales, Marketing, Creative, and Operations teams to execute campaigns seamlessly.
• Identify and develop new business opportunities with major advertisers.
• Provide guidance or mentorship to junior sales or account managers supporting partnership activations.

Requirements

• Proven sales track record with 2+ years in digital media sales, sponsorship sales, or partnership development, with a history of closing high-value, multimillion-dollar deals.
• Established network of brand and agency contacts across industries such as Pharma, Financial Services, Automotive, Media, CPG, Technology & Telecom.
• Demonstrated ability to build custom sponsorship solutions, negotiate large contracts, and influence C-level decision-makers.
• Experience owning a $5M+ annual sales quota with a goal to double revenue within two years.
• Familiarity with branded content, native advertising, integrated sponsorship packages, and performance metrics like CPM, CPA, and brand lift.
• Strong communication skills with the ability to deliver compelling presentations and proposals.
• Competence in using CRM systems such as Salesforce or HubSpot for pipeline management.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with internal teams to develop innovative advertising solutions.
• Willingness to travel approximately 20-30% for client meetings and industry events.

Nice to Have

• Additional industry vertical experience beyond those listed.
• Experience with social media influencer-style content and large social media audiences.
• Knowledge of emerging digital advertising trends and new media formats.

Qualifications

• Educational background is not explicitly specified, but relevant experience and proven success are required.

Benefits & Perks

• High-impact opportunity to lead major sponsorship deals for a brand reaching over 140 million monthly visitors.
• Competitive compensation package including base salary plus aggressive commissions/bonuses.
• Role in shaping strategic partnerships and influencing product innovation within the new PLAY experience.
• Supportive team culture with passionate colleagues in marketing, editorial, and product teams.
• Comprehensive benefits including medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.