Advertising Director
San Rafael, California
| Date Posted | July 08, 2026 |
|---|---|
| Industry | Digital Media |
| Specialty | Not Specified |
| Remote / Telecommute | Hybrid |
| Job Status | Full-time |
| Salary | $80,000 to $100,000 |
Description:
Summary:
Are you ready to be the voice of Marin’s business community? For 165 years, the Marin Independent Journal has been more than a newspaper—we are the cornerstone of our community. As a proud recipient of 19 California News Publishers Association awards this year alone, including the coveted General Excellence award, we don’t just report the news; we define the conversation in the North Bay.
We are looking for a visionary Advertising Director to guide our sales strategy. We are an organization that is bucking industry trends—posting a 75%+ growth in digital subscriptions over the last three years while maintaining a stable, loyal print base. We aren't just selling ad space; we are connecting the community with the businesses that sustain it. As our Advertising Director, you will bridge the gap between our storied legacy and our digital-first future. Reporting directly to the President and Publisher, you will be the primary architect of our advertising success, balancing the stewardship of our traditional print presence with an aggressive, innovative push into digital and social platforms. You will lead our inside and outside sales teams, mentor our representatives, and act as a strategic partner to our clients—from small, family-owned retailers to major regional institutions.
Location Note: This role is based in San Rafael, CA. Candidate must be available to report to the office multiple times per week and attend meetings and community events throughout Marin County and the broader Bay Area.
What you will do:
Lead the advertising strategy for the Marin Independent Journal, driving revenue growth across print, digital, social, events and emerging products
Develop and execute sales plans that expand market share, strengthen client relationships and deliver sustainable revenue growth
Recruit, coach and inspire a high-performing inside and outside sales team through performance management, mentoring and professional development
Build strategic partnerships with local businesses, agencies and community organizations while serving as a trusted advisor to key advertising clients
Analyze sales performance, market trends and customer insights to forecast results, identify opportunities and optimize pricing and sales strategies
Collaborate with editorial, marketing, production and regional MediaNews Group teams to deliver integrated, multi-platform advertising solutions
Represent the Marin Independent Journal throughout the community, strengthening our brand while identifying new business opportunities and fostering long-term partnerships
What you will bring:
Five or more years of progressive sales leadership experience, including at least two years leading digital advertising, multimedia or integrated marketing solutions
A proven record of exceeding revenue goals, growing market share and developing high-performing sales teams
Strong business acumen with experience creating sales strategies, managing forecasts and using CRM and analytics tools to drive decisions
Exceptional communication, presentation and negotiation skills, with the ability to build lasting relationships with clients, agencies and community leaders
An entrepreneurial mindset with a passion for identifying new revenue opportunities and adapting to an evolving media landscape
A collaborative leadership style focused on coaching, accountability, innovation and continuous improvement
A genuine passion for local journalism and helping businesses connect with the audiences and communities they serve
Benefits and Compensation:
The salary range is is $85,000 - $100,000 + cell phone stipend, mileage reimbursement, and commission (OTE $110,000 - $140,000). Pay is based on several factors including but not limited to geographic location, education, work experience, time in role, certifications, etc. In addition to your salary, the Company offers eligible employees a variety of benefits including medical, dental, life and disability insurance, 401k, as well as paid time off and select paid holidays (all benefits are based on eligibility). Please click the following link for more detailed information: www.mymedianewsgroup.com
Who we are:
The Marin Independent Journal, a subsidiary of MediaNews Group, provides comprehensive daily news coverage across Marin County. As the only daily newspaper, The Marin Independent Journal provides in-depth reporting from Novato, San Rafael and Marin City to West Marin County and more.
“4x Built In Best Places to Work Winner - 2023-2026”
EEO Statement:
We are an equal opportunity employer. All applicants will be considered for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, veteran, or disability status.
How To Apply:
Please submit an online application along with your resume for this position here
Closing Date:
Continuous recruitment until the position is filled
Conditions of Employment:
A full pre-employment background check and MVR will be conducted as part of the selection process. Must be willing to submit and pass the necessary required checks
Must possess and maintain a valid driver’s license and have reliable transportation
Travel – This position entails occasional driving for work assignments, in-person training sessions and/or meetings. The employee will be responsible for transporting themselves between different sites as needed
Must be available for shift work. May be required to work various hours for coverage outside of normal business hours
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