Salesperson

Position Overview:

Join our team and help drive the success of three local weekly newspapers serving ten Maine communities. As an Advertising Sales Representative, you’ll build meaningful relationships with local businesses, offering tailored advertising solutions across print and digital platforms. Your focus will be on growing revenue, enhancing the digital relevance of our newspapers, and supporting advertisers in connecting with their target audiences.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Sales & Revenue Growth

• Actively prospect and develop new advertising accounts, while maintaining strong relationships with existing clients.
• Sell both print and digital advertising solutions that meet client needs and align with community trends.
• Meet and strive to exceed set sales goals, collaborating with the Director of Sales to identify growth opportunities.

2. Client Relationship Management

• Foster relationships with local businesses, community members, and organizations to understand their needs and create effective advertising campaigns.
• Visit clients regularly to provide guidance, gather feedback, and share performance insights.
• Address and escalate client concerns to supervisors as needed, ensuring a positive customer experience.

3. Advertising Campaign Execution

• Utilize the Newspaper Manager CRM to manage all client communications, ad orders, and records accurately.
• Ensure all advertisements meet deadlines, align with creative standards, and adhere to client specifications.
• Partner with clients to design effective campaigns tied to community events and special themes.

4. Digital Product Focus

• Promote and sell digital advertising products, helping clients enhance their online presence and engagement.
• Lead the sales strategy for digital and print advertising and sponsorships for ‘Blue Economy’ businesses that serve customers in the PBP coverage area.  
• Educate clients on the value and benefits of digital campaigns as part of a well-rounded advertising strategy.

5. Administrative Duties

• Coordinate with production staff, financial teams, and other departments to ensure smooth ad placement and billing processes.
• Provide timely updates to the Director of Sales regarding sales activity, campaign progress, and client feedback.

6. Community Engagement & Innovation

• Stay informed about community events, trends, and business developments to proactively suggest new advertising opportunities.
• Participate in brainstorming sessions to develop new products, campaigns, and strategies that meet community and client needs.

Qualifications:

• Proven sales experience, preferably in media, advertising, or a related field.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills with a passion for building relationships.
• Familiarity with digital advertising platforms and a willingness to learn new technologies.
• Highly organized, detail-oriented, and able to manage multiple deadlines.
• Proficient with Google Workspace and CRM tools (experience with Newspaper Manager CRM a plus).
• Enthusiastic about supporting small businesses and fostering local economic growth.

Compensation Structure

Negotiable per hour pay, plus sales commission

Why Join Us?

This role at Penobscot Bay Press offers the chance to make a tangible impact in rural Maine communities while advancing your career in media and advertising. Be part of a dedicated team that values creativity, collaboration, and a commitment to local storytelling.