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Sales Account Executive

Willamette Week, Portland, Oregon, United States, 97204

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We're looking for the next Account Executive to join the WW Ad Team. If you're someone who has proven sales chops, thrives on hitting goals, isn't afraid to pick up the phone and talk to a stranger, and understands the importance of local journalism - you may be a great fit.

Unlike many sales jobs, the WW ad team is deeply connected to our community. We're proud that our sales efforts not only work to help local businesses grow - but also support our journalism - both vital to a healthy civic life. We think it makes this a pretty special place to work—one where a close-knit team genuinely supports each other.

Mission matters here—but in this role, it's all about performance. This is a sales role for someone competitive and ambitious, ready to help us hit big goals in 2026 while powering local journalism and local business.

Responsibilities

Own and grow a book of business, with clear responsibility for hitting and overdelivering on revenue targets.

Maintain a healthy sales pipeline through consistent prospecting, follow‑up, and outreach.

Identify opportunities to increase spend with existing clients through upsells, renewals, and long‑term planning.

Develop a strong understanding of Willamette Week’s media calendar, platforms, and audience to effectively position advertising solutions.

Build trusted relationships with advertisers through regular communication, in‑person meetings, and strategic business reviews.

Create, present, and close compelling advertising proposals aligned with client goals and budgets.

Collaborate cross‑functionally with design, sponsored content, marketing, analytics, and account management teams to execute successful campaigns.

Actively participate (when necessary) in the ad design and sponsored content process by providing clear strategic direction tied to client objectives.

Use CRM tools daily to manage accounts, track activity, log notes, and book advertising.

Regularly proof and audit all client ads to ensure accuracy, quality, and on‑time placement.

Stay current on digital advertising tools, platforms, and non‑traditional ad offerings.

Contribute ideas and feedback to improve Willamette Week’s advertising products and partner experience.

Experience in sales, account management, customer success, or another client‑facing role is strongly preferred.

Demonstrated interest in sales, revenue growth, and performance‑based goals.

Highly organized, self‑motivated, and comfortable managing multiple accounts and deadlines.

Strong communicator who enjoys building relationships and asking for the sale.

Resilient, persistent, and motivated by clear goals and measurable outcomes.

Creative and solutions‑oriented, with the ability to learn quickly and adapt.

Interest in digital and non‑traditional advertising platforms.

A genuine love of Portland: You need to be more than willing to dive deeply into local culture to develop a keen understanding of — and appreciation for — our city.

Willamette Week offers an exciting and challenging environment where sales performance directly supports independent local journalism. We value kind, curious, hardworking people who take ownership of their work, support their teammates, and are excited to grow.

To Apply Send a cover letter and resume to jobs@wweek.com with “Sales Account Executive” in the subject line — or submit both documents via the application portal here.

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