Local Sales Manager, WXMI - Grand Rapids, MI

Local Sales Manager

Are you a proven sales leader ready to drive revenue growth and develop top talent in West Michigan? WXMI, the E.W. Scripps Fox affiliate in Grand Rapids, is seeking a dynamic Local Sales Manager who will lead our local sales team to help businesses thrive through innovative multi-platform advertising solutions. This role offers the opportunity to shape sales strategies across broadcast television, OTT video, digital platforms, and emerging technologies while building the next generation of sales professionals.

What You'll Do:

• Collaborate with DOS and other sales managers and departments to accomplish the objectives of the station.
• Organize, direct and manage the execution and performance of a team of local sales Account Executives.
• Negotiate ratings, rates and budgets.
• Develop new business for station utilizing and maximizing all station platforms including but not limited to broadcast, digital and mobile.
• Develop working knowledge of Scripps Sales Process (SSP) and coach Account Executives regarding SSP in the field.
• Utilize SSP, resources and tools provided to build effective sales strategies.
• Collaborate with the Director of Sales and Sales Managers to train, develop and motivate the local sales team so that revenue goals are achieved.
• Collaborate with the Director of Sales and Sales Managers to foster career growth and development of the local sales team so that a pipeline of talent for future Scripps sales management openings is ready.
• Maintain positive working relationships with outside vendors.
• Interface with traffic systems and personnel to ensure efficient management of airtime inventory.
• Oversee accounts receivable and credit policies.
• Develop and implement pricing and packaging to fill needs of both client and station.
• Know the strengths and weaknesses of the competing stations, other advertising mediums and position the station accordingly.
• Effectively forecast sales revenue and manage department expenses so that financial goals are achieved.
• Other duties as assigned.

What You'll Need:

• Bachelor's degree in business or related field or equivalent experience preferred
• Generally, 7+ years proven success in media sales
• Experience in agency and direct strategic account management, broadcast inventory and digital/video capabilities required
• Valid driver's license, good driving record, and ability to provide proof of insurance with the company required insurance limits.

What You'll Bring:

• Demonstrated aptitude for informal leadership and mentoring; fosters open dialogue, empowers others, addresses conflict quickly and directly
• Strong coaching and feedback skills
• Strong ability to motivate others toward team goals
• Able to foster an environment that enables creative and innovative thinking
• Strong influencing, selling and upselling skills
• Effective teamwork and collaboration skills
• Very strong analysis and data interpretation - able to help others translate needs and research data into sound marketing proposals
• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills
• Outstanding presentation abilities (in person/virtual, small/large groups, all levels)
• Strong time management and organization skills
• Proficient with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel and PowerPoint)
• Working knowledge of Google Office (Sheets, Docs, Slides) and virtual conferencing platforms (E.g. Skype, WebEx, Zoom or MS Teams etc.)
• Proven ability to manage multiple tasks in a fast-paced environment

Where You'll Live, Work and Play:

Grand Rapids, Michigan offers the perfect blend of urban energy and natural beauty. As Michigan's second-largest city, Grand Rapids boasts a thriving downtown with an impressive food scene, world-class breweries, and vibrant arts culture - including the renowned ArtPrize competition. The city sits along the scenic Grand River with easy access to Lake Michigan's stunning shorelines just 30 minutes away. Outdoor enthusiasts will love the area's abundant parks, trails, and four distinct seasons offering everything from summer water sports to winter skiing.