About the Sun-Times

The Chicago Sun-Times is the hardest-working paper in America, covering the stories and issues that matter most to Chicagoans with depth, integrity, and grit. The newsroom has earned eight Pulitzer Prizes for its hard-hitting investigative reporting, in-depth political coverage, insightful sports analysis, entertainment reviews, and cultural commentary. An industry-leading innovator in local news, it has been recognized nationally for expanding digital and multimedia reporting platforms alongside its indomitable daily newspaper, which celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2023.

In January 2022, the Sun-Times merged with public radio station WBEZ with a shared mission to strengthen local journalism in Chicago. Under the banner of Chicago Public Media, Chicago Sun-Times Media, Inc. (CSTM) is now part of one of the largest nonprofit news organizations in the nation. This merger reinforces our commitment to serving Chicagoans with the news that matters most -– fact-based, unbiased journalism that is deeply connected to Chicago communities.

The Opportunity

We are looking for a passionate and solution-oriented account executive to be responsible for multiple client accounts. The account executive's responsibilities include maintaining a thorough knowledge of our business and offerings, developing and implementing strategic plans to grow accounts, managing and strengthening client relationships, identifying new business opportunities, and coordinating with internal teams to deliver on client expectations.

To be successful as an account executive, you should be able to manage and develop your accounts and ensure client satisfaction. An outstanding account executive should have strong communication, customer service, and account management skills and be highly organized and accomplished at solving problems and closing deals.

Account Executive Responsibilities

  • Following up on leads and winning new clients.
  • Developing and implementing strategic plans to manage and grow accounts.
  • Retaining clients and building strong, trusting relationships.
  • Understand client needs and identify new business opportunities within your portfolio.
  • Providing superior customer service and ensuring client satisfaction.
  • Communicating and coordinating with internal teams to deliver solutions.
  • Identifying opportunities for improvement and proposing new tools and processes.
  • Supporting sales teams to improve their performance and reach targets.
  • Developing and maintaining excellent knowledge and understanding of our business, offerings, competitors, and industry.

Account Executive Requirements

  • Bachelor's degree preferred.
  • 2+ years of experience with business development, sales, or account management.
  • Experience managing large account portfolios.
  • In-person meetings with prospects and current accounts
  • Grow account list monthly 
  • Vital customer service and project management skills.
  • Excellent communication, interpersonal, and negotiation skills.
  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office and CRM software.
  • Highly organized and solution-oriented.
  • Detail-oriented and able to prioritize.
  • Self-starter and able to work efficiently under pressure.
What We Offer
  • A competitive salary and benefits package which includes medical, dental, vision, vacation, holidays, life insurance, disability coverage, retirement savings, and a commuter benefits plan
  • Opportunity to work within a collaborative team culture
  • A flexible work schedule
Opportunity to be part of an iconic brand and help build the future of local news!  
 
The information contained in this job description is not intended to create any contractual or other legal commitment. CSTM may change the content or format of this job at any time at its sole and exclusive discretion without notice. This role does not offer sponsorship employment benefits.
 
COVID-19 Requirement: CST requires all staff to be fully vaccinated against COVID-19 and provide proof of vaccination hire.
 
CSTM does not discriminate in its employment decisions based on race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, religion, age, disability, citizenship or national origin, veteran status, or on any other basis, which would violate any applicable federal, state, or local law. 
 
CSTM is committed to providing access, equal opportunity, and reasonable accommodation for individuals with disabilities in employment, its services, programs, and activities.

 

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