Director of Client Partnerships

Summary

Join Optimism as the Director of Client Partnerships and lead the strategy and execution of all advertising sales efforts across our email and web publications. You will be responsible for acquiring new clients, expanding our client portfolio, and building strong, consultative relationships. This role requires a deep understanding of digital advertising and a proven track record of driving ad sales revenue. You will collaborate with internal teams to develop innovative ad products and solutions. Success in this position involves meeting or exceeding sales goals and expanding into new industry verticals. Optimism offers a competitive salary and a commitment to diversity and inclusion.

Requirements

• 7+ years of experience in advertising sales, digital media, or a related field
• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Marketing, Communications, or related
• Proven track record of successfully driving ad sales revenue and building client relationships
• Deep understanding of the advertising ecosystem, including programmatic, direct, and branded content solutions
• Strong ability to move up the funnel in sales efforts and build consultative relationships with clients
• Robust relevant rolodex of clients and contacts (brand and agency)
• Exceptional communication, negotiation, and strategic planning skills
• Ability to work cross-functionally to deliver innovative solutions that meet client and company objectives
• Proven track record of meeting and exceeding revenue targets and sales quotas
• Proven track record of prospecting and sourcing new leads
• Excellent communication, negotiation, and presentation skills
• Ability to analyze data and market trends to inform sales strategies and decision-making
• Strategic thinker with the ability to execute at both the tactical and operational levels
• Ability to work cross-functionally and manage relationships with key stakeholders
• Proficiency with CRM tools and sales analytics platforms
• Entrepreneurial spirit with the ability to identify and capitalize on new opportunities

Responsibilities

• Drive revenue by identifying and onboarding new clients across various industries and new verticals
• Expand the company’s client portfolio by building strong relationships and consistently pursuing new business opportunities
• Move beyond transactional sales to build strong, consultative relationships with clients
• Focus on branding and awareness campaigns to help clients achieve upper-funnel marketing goals
• Develop and pitch solutions that emphasize reach, engagement, and long-term brand building
• Create and execute a comprehensive sales strategy that aligns with company goals and revenue targets
• Meet or exceed quarterly and annual sales goals through consistent pipeline management and sales efforts
• Lead negotiation and closing of deals to ensure profitable and mutually beneficial partnerships
• Collaborate with internal teams to develop and introduce innovative ad products and solutions tailored to client needs
• Stay ahead of market trends and emerging technologies to recommend new offerings and advertising channels
• Expand sales through broader offerings and integrated campaigns
• Lead efforts to break into and establish a presence in new industry verticals
• Research and analyze market opportunities to prioritize verticals with high growth potential
• Create tailored sales strategies and value propositions for various verticals and offerings
• Expand revenue demand by diversifying the client base across multiple industries and client segments
• Focus on securing long-term partnerships and increasing retention
• Work closely with the product, editorial, and operations teams to align offerings with market needs and client feedback
• Act as a bridge between clients and internal teams to deliver seamless campaigns and solutions
• Monitor industry trends, competitive offerings, and client behaviors to adapt sales strategies effectively
• Provide regular sales updates, forecasts, and performance metrics to executive leadership
• Identify gaps or opportunities in the current sales approach and product offerings

Benefits

$130,000 - $170,000 a year