Account Manager - Local Sponsorship

The Local Sponsorship Account Manager is a WGCU brand ambassador, strategically leveraging sales and marketing concepts and tools, to gain corporate support and network with C-suite executives of companies of all sizes, to invest in WGCU. This position is responsible for direct sales and develops revenue generating relations with local business agencies and non-profit leaders, and other local influencers. Assists in the development of sales strategies to drive revenue for WGCU to both philanthropic corporations, and to clients seeking return on investments. The Local Sponsorship Manager reports to the Associate General Manager of Business Partnerships and Corporate Investments.

WGCU is Southwest Florida’s source for PBS and NPR. A member-supported service of Florida Gulf Coast University, WGCU provides educational programming that inspires, informs and engages our community. Serving all or part of 12 counties in south and Southwest Florida, with five distinct digital TV channels, two FM radio channels, two HD radio channels, and multiple websites, WGCU delivers national and international programming, and develops, produces and delivers relevant, informative and educational local programs to the region.

FGCU is building a culture of curiosity, commitment and collaboration. We value employees who successfully work with others and drive positive change through critical thinking and decisive action. If you thrive in an environment of innovation, accountability and mutual respect, you will find a good home here.

Job Description

Typical duties may include but are not limited to:

• Responsible for direct sales efforts of WGCU services and promotions to local businesses and agencies.
• Develop marketing concepts in partnership with other departments that increase corporate investments and inspire increased membership support.
• Promote marketing and sponsorship opportunities on radio, TV, and digital channels.
• Identify and estimate monetary value of missed sales opportunities.
• Maximize revenue potential for all spots and special programming opportunities.
• Independently create new presentations and determine audience data on program services of WGCU, and their comparative value against commercial media channels.
• Prepares a local revenue operating budget and performs ongoing budget analysis. Prepares and provides reports to Associate General Manager and General Manager.
• Develop strategies to enhance nontraditional revenue opportunities.
• Execute trades to alleviate station-wide expenses.
• Oversees the work efforts of third-party sales vendors.
• Accurately forecast local account list and prospect variable and WGCU’s revenue potential using industry specific media software.
• Develop growth revenue by focusing on “conversion” targets from other media including radio, print, online and cable.

Other Duties:

• Performs other job-related duties as assigned.
• May supervise or train other sales persons.

Additional Job Description

Required Qualifications:

• This position requires either eight years of directly related full-time experience or, as an alternative, a Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution in an appropriate area of specialization and four years of full-time experience directly related to the job functions.
• Expertise in media sales, corporate fundraising, or event sponsorship.
• Experience in digital sales, radio, TV, or event sponsorship required.
• Experience operating a personal computer and proficiency with Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook) software.
• Any appropriate combination of relevant education, experience, and/or certifications may be considered.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Master's Degree from an accredited institution in an appropriate area of specialization.
• Two years professional full-time experience in corporate fundraising and event sponsorship.
• Public media experience.

Knowledge, Skills & Abilities:

• Proven ability to think strategically and approach challenges with creativity.
• Demonstrated track record of reliability, meeting goals, and holding oneself accountable.
• Strong interpersonal skills and experience working effectively across teams.
• Knowledge of accounting, budgeting, finance and management principles, practices and procedures.
• Extensive knowledge of marketing and advertising tools. Knowledge of sales, marketing, traditional, and new media.
• Expert knowledge of Nielsen, Google Analytics Media Audit, Scarborough, Media Monitors or BIA, traffic software for radio, TV, and digital, Word, Excel and PowerPoint
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal, and written communication skills.
• Excellent organizational skills and the ability to prioritize and complete simultaneous projects.
• Ability to influence at the most senior levels of an organization and work across functions, levels, and departments toward shared objectives.
• Ability to collaborate and develop strategic relations with staff, faculty, students, and business partners.
• Ability to take initiative to plan, organize, coordinate and perform work in various situations when numerous and competing demands are involved.
• Ability to set the value for WGCU’s public service and audience at approximately 3x the commodities advertising market.
• Ability to use effective decision making and problem-solving techniques.
• Ability to think critically and creatively, have a high standard of integrity, and be motivated to incorporate best practices into the organizational structure.
• Ability to maintain confidentiality and discretion at all times.
• Ability to exercise a high degree of independent judgement in the establishment, interpretation, application, and enforcement of all rules, regulations, and policies.
• Ability to effectively manage the work of others by providing information, guidance, and motivation.

Institutional Values & Behavioral Expectation

In this role, the successful candidate will be expected to:

• Seek out new approaches to improve outcomes; remain open for feedback and new ideas.
• Lead with integrity; consistently produce high-quality work; persevere to overcome obstacles to meet deadlines and achieve deliverables.
• Share information and insights thoughtfully; build partnerships across departments; communicate respectfully; support colleagues to achieve common goals.

FGCU is a State University System of Florida member and an Equal Opportunity and Equal Access employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, age, national origin, disability, or protected veteran status.