Salary range: Min-Max, salary is commensurate with experience
Location:
This position is based at our Hanover, MD headquarters. Hybrid work arrangements are acceptable, with telework opportunities per Next Level Sports & Entertainment's corporate policies, and the ability to commute to the office as needed.
This is not a remote opportunity.
About Us:
The Next Level Sports & Entertainment (NLSE) Leadership Team is comprised of several of the strongest, most innovative, and creative champions for the urban community. We are the premier multi=sports and entertainment content provider, covering over 15+ million homes in all seven continents!
NLSE is the only minority owned 24/7 linear platform in the US, distributing content across digital and broadcast networks that showcases live events and original programming. Content includes live and on-demand videos such as games and events, interviews, predictions, analysis, and a variety of original programming. Visit our website here.
Why Join Us?
NLSE's Executives foster a supportive work environment allowing our teams to thrive, and have a fierce dedication to innovation, security, and people. Our culture is built on inclusion, teamwork, trust, and we are committed to offering career advancement opportunities to all employees. Encouraging a healthy and balanced life, we offer an extensive benefits package to support the wellness of our employees and their families. You will be joining a team of innovators, working with cutting edge technologies, building a network, and making an impact.
Apply today!
About Your New Role:
The Director of Ad Sales will lead NLSE's advertising sales efforts as we build and launch our groundbreaking sports broadcast network. As the Ad Sales Director, you will be a key driver in generating revenue, forging strategic partnerships, and shaping the network's ad sales strategy from the ground up. You will lead the charge in developing relationships with advertisers, brands, and agencies eager to connect with the dynamic sports audience that our network delivers.
This position is responsible for delivering best in class sales performance, and expansion into critical regional key accounts and channels. This role will be accountable for implementing strategies that drive revenue growth, profitability, and market development in line with NLSE's vision and values.
Responsibilities:
Develop and implement a robust ad sales strategy that aligns with the network's growth goals and leverages the unique appeal of our sports content.
Identify and target key industries and brands that are interested in reaching sports fans across digital, linear, and social media platforms.
Establish competitive pricing models, revenue projections, and sales goals to optimize ad revenue generation.
Cultivate and grow relationships with national and regional advertisers, agencies, and sponsors who want to engage with our diverse sports audience.
Proactively identify and pursue new advertising opportunities, including direct sales to brands looking for unique and innovative ways to reach sports viewers.
Lead high-level presentations, pitches, and negotiations with key clients to secure long-term ad deals, sponsorships, and brand integrations.
Manage the entire sales cycle-from prospecting to closing deals-to meet and exceed revenue targets.
Develop creative sponsorship packages that leverage our sports network's programming, live events, and digital assets, delivering exceptional value to advertisers.
Drive innovation in ad sales offerings, including native advertising, branded content, product placement, and cross-platform partnerships.
Work closely with programming, marketing, and production teams to ensure ad sales align with content strategy, live events, and viewer engagement.
Collaborate with the marketing team to create sales materials, media kits, and proposals that showcase the value of advertising with the network.
Lead and mentor a growing sales team, providing direction, support, and performance feedback to ensure the team's success in meeting revenue goals.
Stay informed on industry trends, market shifts, and emerging advertising technologies to position the network as an innovative leader in sports advertising.
Analyze sales performance data, market conditions, and customer feedback to adjust strategies and maximize ROI for both the network and advertisers.
Understand the competitive landscape within sports media to differentiate our network and deliver unique ad solutions.
Qualifications:
Bachelor's degree in Business, Marketing, or a related field; MBA is a plus.
8+ years of experience in ad sales, with a proven track record of driving revenue in media, sports, or entertainment industries.
Strong existing relationships with advertisers, agencies, and brands in the sports and entertainment sectors.
Expertise in developing cross-platform advertising deals, including TV, digital, and social media integrations.
Exceptional negotiation, presentation, and communication skills; ability to engage and influence senior decision-makers.
Entrepreneurial mindset with the ability to thrive in a fast-paced startup environment and adapt to rapid changes.
Experience with ad tech platforms, programmatic sales, and digital advertising tools is highly desirable.
A passion for sports and a deep understanding of the sports media landscape.