The primary focus of this position is to manage and oversee the execution of major sponsorship programs sold within USA TODAY Network. This person will be responsible for executing premium content programs, including but not limited to: content sponsorships, and branded content. They will also be responsible for managing timelines, coordinating stakeholders, setting up campaigns using internal systems, promotional ad units, PR, maintaining campaigns throughout the life-cycle, status reports, and overall program summaries.
The Program Manager will be responsible for direct client communication via conference calls, emails, in-person meetings, and written status reports. They will serve as the main point-of-contact with clients on all components of a program from kick-off-call to the end of the flight This person will be required to attend client meetings when necessary and be prepared to be the lead voice on meeting agendas, client communication, program status reports, updates, and execution.
The Program Manager shall identify and implement successful strategies and practices as well as mitigate challenges and obstacles for the effective and efficient management of content programs. They will also be responsible for tracking individual and aggregate campaign performance to inform successful strategies for renewing programs and new business.
Strong organizational skills, communication skills, and relationship building skills are essential. An understanding of multi-media and especially the digital space are also critical. Experience in or knowledge of sports media, especially Golf is a major plus.
The Program Manager should be a strong team player and will be a key strategist to multiple internal teams including account management, sales, ad ops, editorial, video, product, and client solutions.
The position is located in McLean, VA or New York City, NY and may require some occasional odd work hours.
KNOWLEDGE, SKILLS & ABILITIES REQUIRED:
The ideal Program Manager candidate should have at least 3 years of digital media and/or multi-media experience, ideally in a collaborative role within a complex multi-media organization. Specific skills include:
Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail, is deadline-driven and proactive
Strong communication skills (written and verbal) and proven experience directly managing clients
Highly collaborative style with ability to influence multiple internal teams to drive towards completion of tasks
Experience implementing cross-platform sponsorships
Ability to manage multiple projects and tasks under time pressure in a fast-paced, high-pressured environment
Critical thinking skills and can see the larger goals of a project without losing site of important details
Self-starter attitude and ability to work independently
Sports experience or affinity preferred
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:
College degree
3-5 years previous work experience in a multi-media environment, ideally in account management at a major publisher or agency
2 years previous work experience in project management
Computer skills: Microsoft Office Suite, ability to learn internal platforms
