Account Executive, Brand, Social & Live Sales Partnerships

About Crooked Media

At Crooked Media, we recognize that the rising tide of authoritarianism must be met with a powerful democratic movement championing freedom, equality, compassion, and the rule of law. As a media company, we leverage all available channels to build a broad and diverse coalition united by these democratic ideals.

Job Overview

We are seeking an Account Executive for Brand, Social, & Live Sales Partnerships to join our Sales team, reporting directly to the VP of Sales. This role focuses on securing high-impact partnerships with brands aiming to increase cultural relevance and reach vast audiences through Crooked's array of podcasts, simulcast video, social media, newsletters, and live events.

The position demands leadership in direct sales to brand marketers and agencies prioritizing brand awareness, cultural engagement, branded storytelling, social content, and live experiential marketing. The Account Executive will also develop premium sponsorship opportunities linked to Crooked’s content and flagship events such as Crooked Con, live tours, and special event coverages like the White House Correspondents' Dinner.

Our ideal candidate possesses extensive connections within holding companies, brand marketing teams, and agencies, with proven success in closing large multi-platform deals. While Crooked adopts a hybrid work culture generally, this role is New York-based and includes some travel; candidates should be based in or willing to relocate to New York before starting.

Key Responsibilities

• Drive outbound sales targeting brand marketers and agencies aiming to boost brand awareness and cultural impact.
• Build and nurture relationships with brand decision-makers across marketing, partnerships, and strategy departments.
• Develop integrated partnership opportunities combining podcasts, video, social media, newsletters, and live experiences.
• Design and package comprehensive campaigns incorporating host-read ads, branded segments, product placements, social integrations, and premium sponsorships.
• Manage the entire sales cycle from lead generation through negotiation and successful deal closure.
• Create sponsorship opportunities related to major Crooked events and cultural programming.
• Lead the sales of branded podcast segments and sponsored editorial content across Crooked’s network.
• Identify chances for brands to integrate into significant editorial moments, breaking news, and cross-platform stories.
• Collaborate closely with programming and creative teams to craft authentic branded integrations aligning with Crooked’s voice and audience.
• Act as the main liaison for brand partners and agencies during active campaigns, coordinating with account management, creatives, production, and ad operations teams to implement integrated partnerships.
• Track campaign performance, maintain strong client relationships, and seek opportunities to broaden partnerships over time.
• Offer market insights and advertiser feedback to enhance Crooked’s sales approach and programming strategy.
• Qualify new prospects and expand the account base through effective sales research and pitch development.
• Provide timely client and market feedback to refine sales offerings and strategic calendar planning.
• Prepare media plans and sponsorship proposals spanning podcasts, video, social media, newsletters, and events.

Required Qualifications

• Minimum 7 years’ experience in media sales, brand partnerships, or integrated marketing roles.
• Proven track record selling multi-platform media campaigns involving audio, video, social channels, and live experiences.
• Established network of contacts among brand marketers, direct brand representatives, and agency decision-makers.
• Successful experience creating and selling customized partnerships, including branded segments, live event sponsorships, and social integrations.
• Ability to proactively generate partnership ideas connected to current cultural moments and editorial programming.
• Experience managing large-scale deals and maintaining long-term strategic partnerships.
• Collaborative approach to working cross-functionally with programming, production, creative, and ad operations teams.
• Familiarity with podcast and digital media platforms is highly advantageous.
• Strong project management capabilities managing multiple priority projects with tight deadlines.
• Confidence and expertise in client-facing presentations within the media sector.
• Positive, team-oriented mindset that embraces ownership and knowledge sharing.
• Advanced proficiency with Microsoft Office Suite, especially Excel, Google Slides or PowerPoint for pitching, and Google Sheets for proposals.
• Experience with podcast sales software and analytics tools such as Simplecast, Megaphone, and Podscribe is advantageous.

Compensation & Benefits

We offer competitive compensation based on industry benchmarks and individual experience levels. This role’s salary range is from $125,000 to $145,000 annually.

• Comprehensive healthcare coverage.
• 401(k) retirement plan with company matching contributions.
• Generous paid time off including vacation, sick, bereavement, pregnancy loss, and disability leave.
• Paid parental leave for 20 weeks.
• Commuter reimbursements or paid parking benefits.
• Communication stipends to support remote or hybrid work.
• Opportunities for professional growth and development.
• Year-end office closure for holidays.

Work Environment & Culture

We foster an inclusive environment where every individual is encouraged to bring their authentic selves to work. Diversity in nationality, race/ethnicity, beliefs, gender identities, sexual orientations, abilities, and cultures is respected and valued. We prioritize creativity, courage, ongoing learning, and recognize achievements both big and small. Team members are provided with the tools and autonomy to excel and take ownership of their roles.