Advertising Director

MediaNews Group • San Rafael, CA

1d • Hybrid

About The Position

Are you ready to be the voice of Marin’s business community? For 165 years, the Marin Independent Journal has been more than a newspaper—we are the cornerstone of our community. As a proud recipient of 19 California News Publishers Association awards this year alone, including the coveted General Excellence award, we don’t just report the news; we define the conversation in the North Bay. We are looking for a visionary Advertising Director to guide our sales strategy. We are an organization that is bucking industry trends—posting a 75%+ growth in digital subscriptions over the last three years while maintaining a stable, loyal print base. We aren't just selling ad space; we are connecting the community with the businesses that sustain it. As our Advertising Director, you will bridge the gap between our storied legacy and our digital-first future. Reporting directly to the President and Publisher, you will be the primary architect of our advertising success, balancing the stewardship of our traditional print presence with an aggressive, innovative push into digital and social platforms. You will lead our inside and outside sales teams, mentor our representatives, and act as a strategic partner to our clients—from small, family-owned retailers to major regional institutions. This role is based in San Rafael, CA. Candidate must be available to report to the office multiple times per week and attend meetings and community events throughout Marin County and the broader Bay Area.

Requirements

• 5+ years of success in media or sales leadership
• At least 2 years specifically focused on digital advertising and emerging media trends
• Understand the unique business landscape of Marin and the North Bay
• Proven track record of exceeding sales targets, not just meeting them
• Gifted communicator and presenter
• Tech-savvy, proficient in sales CRM/analytics
• Able to negotiate complex contracts with ease
• Believe in the power of local news
• Understand that when a local business thrives, the entire community benefits, and you are driven to make that happen
• Must be available to report to the office multiple times per week and attend meetings and community events throughout Marin County and the broader Bay Area
• Must be willing to submit and pass the necessary required checks
• Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and have reliable transportation
• May be required to work various hours for coverage outside of normal business hours

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute sales strategies that capitalize on our 165-year reputation while aggressively scaling our digital portfolio
• Recruit, train, and inspire a high-performing sales organization. We need a mentor who knows how to cultivate talent and empower veteran staff to reach new heights
• Modernize our sales pipeline, leveraging CRM insights to forecast growth and refine our approach based on real-time market data
• Collaborate with marketing, production, and leadership across our network, including The Mercury News and the East Bay Times, to build integrated, multi-channel campaigns
• Represent the Marin IJ at client events, chambers of commerce, and business associations. You are the face of our commercial operation

Benefits

• Salary range is $85,000 - $100,000 + cell phone stipend, mileage reimbursement, and commission (OTE $110,000 - $140,000)
• Medical insurance
• Dental insurance
• Life insurance
• Disability insurance
• 401k
• Paid time off
• Select paid holidays

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: No Education Listed