Sr. Event Sales & Strategic Partnerships Director
Req #26464
Our current portfolio of media assets includes USA TODAY, local media organizations in 46 states in the U.S., and Newsquest, a wholly owned subsidiary operating in the United Kingdom with more than 120 local news media brands. Gannett also owns the digital marketing services companies UpCurve, Inc. and WordStream, Inc., which are marketed under the LOCALiQ brand, and runs the largest media-owned events business in the U.S., USA TODAY NETWORK Ventures.
To connect with us, visit www.gannett.com.
Sr. Event Sales & Strategic Partnerships Director
Ventures
usatventures.com
USA TODAY NETWORK Ventures creates impactful consumer engagements and experiences through world-class events, promotions, races and technology. We strive to exceed expectations, create unforgettable memories and drive value for our partners while leveraging our reputable institutions, including USA TODAY and more than 250 local media brands. The events and promotions that we build inspire pride in local communities and connect local and national businesses with highly engaged audiences. We are an industry leader and drive results from coast to coast. USATVentures.com
Overview:
USA TODAY NETWORK Ventures is seeking a seasoned sales professional to lead sponsorship efforts across the US. Our ideal candidate is experienced in relationship and partnership building and has a proven ability and record of closing sales. The VP, Sales & Strategic Partnership reports directly to the Sr. VP, Strategy & Operations and works closely with Ventures’ senior leadership team. If you think you have what it takes to work with our expanding team, apply now!
Core Responsibilities:
- Build and expand relationships with regional and national corporations and organizations for event sponsorship purposes. Build proposals and recommendations to meet client needs and drive profitable revenue for Ventures.
- Work with Leadership to set targets for site level sales goals.
- Manage current/prospective client database to penetrate new markets and connect with sales targets in Ventures’ local markets.
- Create strategy and execution guidelines for all event management staff to meet performance objectives and clients’ expectations.
- Manage pipeline of regional and national event sponsorship sales, oversee and maximize the company’s profitability while obtaining and/or surpassing set event sales targets.
- Establish productive, professional relationships with local markets. Proactively assesses, clarifies, and validates upper management needs on an ongoing basis.
Core Requirements:
- Bachelor’s Degree Required.
- At least 5 years in a similar position managing national sales in entertainment or event environment.
- Strong prospecting, cold calling and sales skills to find target clients and close new business.
- Experience selling in first-class events. Able to craft compelling sales pitch for Ventures.
- Previous experience observing and coaching sales team during client interaction.
- Previous success in National/regional or multi-site sales and promotions role.
- Excellent communication and written skills.
- Motivated self-starter who excels at multitasking and is able to work without direct supervision.
- Driven team player who’s always working to improve themselves and the team.
- Willing to assist other teams in the organization and travel to support event execution.
- Legal right to work in the United States.
Leadership Responsibilities:
- Able to assess skills, offer constructive coaching, and share best practices broadly.
- Strong organizational and communication skills; self-confidence, and professional maturity.
- Motivational and encouraging coaching style, able to hold others accountable for results.
- Create memories for our sponsors; lead brainstorming with event sales staff to ensure successful event communication, planning and execution.
- Demonstrate leadership to meet financial, hospitality and guest measures; able to drive sales results and achieve targets.
- Strong problem solving and decision-making skills; able to identify root causes and generate plausible solutions. Solid track record of professional judgment, discernment to know when issues can be resolved and when to escalate matters.
Other details
- Job Family Sales
- Job Function Marketing Solutions
- Pay Type Salary
- Min Hiring Rate $125,000.00
- Max Hiring Rate $150,000.00