Advertising Director

Role Overview

The Midland Reporter-Telegram, part of Hearst Community Media Group, is seeking an Advertising Director to lead local advertising operations and serve as the face of the organization in the Midland, TX community.

Why Hearst Community Media Group?

Our people make the difference! Our diverse team is filled with passionate individuals who want to win. We offer an upbeat and collaborative working environment where challenging the norm is encouraged. With ample opportunities to learn new skills and advance within the organization, our team members are given the tools to learn and grow their careers.

Leverage Advanced AI for Maximum Efficiency and Earnings

• Utilize our AI-powered software to enhance every stage of the sales cycle, from prospecting and planning to presenting and closing deals.
• Work closely with editorial leadership and senior management to align sales goals with broader business objectives.
• Ensure that our advertising strategies reflect both market opportunity and community values.

What will you do?

• Drive Success with Innovative Tools: Utilize our AI-powered software to enhance every stage of the sales cycle, from prospecting and planning to presenting and closing deals.
• Lead the Local Sales Team: Inspire and manage a team of advertising professionals (2 local, 1 remote) to drive print and digital revenue, fostering a results-oriented, collaborative culture.
• Be the Face of the Organization: Represent the Midland Reporter-Telegram at chamber events, civic organizations, and within the business community—building relationships that drive awareness, trust, and revenue.
• Drive Sales Strategy & Execution: Develop and implement go-to-market strategies for new and existing advertising products, ensuring your team hits or exceeds revenue targets.
• Coach and Develop Talent: Actively mentor sales staff, join client meetings, model strong sales behavior, and support professional growth through hands-on leadership.
• Engage with Key Clients: Maintain and grow relationships with major advertisers, acting as a trusted advisor and advocate for their success across our platforms.
• Collaborate Cross-Functionally: Partner with editorial, circulation, and corporate teams to align efforts, support community coverage, and maximize audience impact.
• Champion New Initiatives: Identify market trends and consumer needs to propose new advertising programs and community-focused campaigns.
• Ensure Operational Excellence: Monitor KPIs, sales activities, and market dynamics to adjust strategy and ensure consistent performance across all channels.

What would it take to be successful?

• Community-First Mindset: You’re energized by representing your organization publicly and building lasting relationships with local business leaders, nonprofits, and civic groups.
• Leadership by Example: You're not just a manager—you’re a coach who’s willing to join sales calls, guide team members in the field, and lead from the front.
• Proven Sales Acumen: You have a strong track record of hitting or exceeding advertising and digital sales goals, with an ability to turn strategy into action.
• Adaptability and Drive: You thrive in a fast-paced, hands-on environment and are motivated to roll up your sleeves to build something impactful at the local level.
• Strategic Thinking: You can analyze market dynamics, identify growth opportunities, and pivot as needed to stay ahead in a changing media landscape.
• Strong Communication Skills: Whether engaging with the community or collaborating across departments, your communication is clear, persuasive, and purpose-driven.
• Digital Fluency: You bring an understanding of digital advertising solutions and how to apply them effectively for local businesses.
• Commitment to Excellence: You hold yourself and your team accountable to high standards, with a focus on integrity, professionalism, and community service.

What we’re looking for:

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Advertising, Marketing, Communications, Business, or related field preferred. Equivalent experience in media sales or leadership will also be considered.
• Experience: Minimum 5 years in advertising, digital sales, or multimedia marketing. Must have led sales teams and demonstrated success in driving revenue growth.
• Active community engagement—such as participation in chambers, charitable boards, or civic leadership in Midland or similar markets—is highly valued.

Skills:

• Strong communicator and negotiator with a knack for building relationships and closing deals.
• Tech-savvy with knowledge of CRM tools and Microsoft Office.
• Able to interpret data, identify opportunities, and adjust strategies to meet evolving goals.

What we offer:

• Dynamic Environment: A great work environment where it's never boring.
• Comprehensive Training: Paid in-depth sales and product training.
• Competitive Compensation: Competitive base salary with uncapped commissions for unlimited earning potential.
• Collaborative Culture: Ideas and input are always welcome.

About Hearst Community Media Group:

Hearst Texas Communities feature award-winning staples in the Lone Star State, which are made up of the Beaumont Enterprise, the Laredo Morning Times, the Midland Reporter-Telegram, and the Plainview Daily Herald. In addition to its journalism, the organization provides innovative, unique advertising and marketing solutions for local and regional businesses to grow and succeed.

About Hearst Newspapers:

With 2,500 employees across the nation, HNP represents a network of 24 daily and 52 weekly publications, including the San Francisco Chronicle, Houston Chronicle, San Antonio Express-News and Albany Times Union, several top digital-only news and lifestyle sites, marketing services businesses, and entertainment businesses such as King Features Syndicate. At HNP, we are investing in new and innovative ways to tell stories–growing newsrooms, diversifying tools, evolving platforms–to support the millions of people who trust us each month to help them make decisions, take action and be inspired.