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

Gannett

New York, NY
Full Time
Senior
70k-80k
15 days ago

Job Description

About the Role

We are a major media organization operating a large network of news sites, including over 100 local newspapers, a unified national news platform, and dedicated sports and lifestyle channels. Our multimedia group drives millions of views and listens every month across various platforms. We are seeking an Interactive Sales Executive with a proven track record in closing high-value sponsorships and partnerships in video and audio to generate substantial revenue for our multimedia portfolio, including our puzzle site and the broader PLAY experience. The role involves creating and scaling successful brand partnerships across social media and direct-sold campaigns, contributing to flagship brands in news, entertainment, sports, lifestyle, and audio storytelling.

Key Responsibilities

  • Own end-to-end sales cycle to achieve $5M in sponsorship revenue 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 our multimedia portfolio.
  • Develop compelling sponsorship opportunities leveraging the scale of our multimedia portfolio in news, entertainment, sports, and lifestyle.
  • 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 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 for opportunities and feedback to internal teams.
  • Maintain accurate records of deal progress, revenue forecasts, and pipeline health in CRM systems.
  • Provide regular updates to senior leadership on sales progress and market insights.
  • Work closely with Sales, Marketing, Creative, and Operations teams to execute campaigns.
  • 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: 2+ years in digital media sales, sponsorship sales, or partnership development with a record of closing high-value, multimillion-dollar deals.
  • Industry Relationships: Established network of brand and agency contacts across Pharma, Financial Services, Automotive, Media, CPG, Technology & Telecom.
  • Strategic Selling & Negotiation: Ability to build custom sponsorship solutions, negotiate large contracts, and influence C-level decision-makers.
  • Revenue Accountability: Comfortable owning a $5M+ annual quota with the ambition to double revenue by the second year.
  • Digital Media Expertise: Familiarity with branded content, native advertising, sponsorship packages, and performance metrics like CPM, CPA, and brand lift.
  • Strong Communication Skills: Excellent presentation abilities, proposal creation, and pitch delivery.
  • Analytical & Results-Driven: Experience with CRM systems (Salesforce, HubSpot or similar) and data-oriented pipeline management.
  • Team Player: Ability to collaborate with internal teams to craft solutions that align with audience engagement.
  • Willingness to Travel: Ability to meet clients and attend industry events, estimated 20-30% travel.

Nice to Have

  • Additional verticals experience beyond those listed.
  • Experience with influencer-style content-creator approaches.

Qualifications

  • 2+ years in digital media sales, sponsorship sales, or partnership development.
  • Established network of brand and agency contacts in relevant verticals.
  • Proven ability to negotiate large contracts and influence decision-makers.
  • Experience owning a $5M+ annual sales quota.

Benefits & Perks

  • High-Impact Opportunity: Lead major sponsorship deals for a brand reaching over 140 million visitors monthly.
  • Competitive Compensation: Base salary plus aggressive commission/bonus structure.
  • Growth Trajectory: Play a key role in evolving the PLAY experience and shaping strategic partnerships.
  • Supportive Team Culture: Collaborate with passionate colleagues in marketing, editorial, and product teams.
  • Comprehensive Benefits: Medical, dental, vision, 401(k) with company match, paid time off, and professional development opportunities.

Working at Gannett

Our culture is collaborative and forward-thinking, with a focus on delivering engaging content and innovative advertising solutions. We value passionate colleagues dedicated to growth, creativity, and audience engagement.

Apply Now

Job Details

Posted AtJun 6, 2025
Salary70k-80k
Job TypeFull Time
Work ModeRemote
ExperienceSenior

About Gannett

Website

gannett.com

Company Size

10000+ employees

Location

New York, NY

Industry

Other Services Related to Advertising

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