Business Development Executive-Waterloo, IA

Lee Enterprises; Waterloo (IA); Hybrid; USD 60,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Lee Enterprises in Waterloo, IA is seeking a results-driven Business Development Executive to sell advertising solutions across our local brands. This hybrid role blends remote work with in-person client meetings to grow revenue.

You’ll build a pipeline of digital and print advertising campaigns, manage relationships, and meet monthly and quarterly targets while learning the latest digital marketing tools. Candidates bring strategic thinking and strong communication to turn conversations into

Qualifications

• Three+ years of sales experience; digital advertising experience is a plus.
• Bachelor’s degree in marketing or advertising.
• Proven track record of growing revenue through new business development and existing client relationships.
• Familiarity with digital advertising technology and analytics platforms such as Google Analytics.
• Strong client relationship skills and the ability to close deals.

Responsibilities

• Open doors. Find new prospects, build relationships, and turn introductions into lasting partnerships.
• Get to know the business. Ask thoughtful questions, understand each client’s challenges, and recommend advertising solutions that make sense.
• Build and maintain a client portfolio. Meet monthly and quarterly revenue goals and use campaign results to show clients their return on investment.
• Bring ideas to life. Develop and present creative digital and multimedia campaigns that connect businesses with their audiences.
• Grow your accounts. Help existing clients discover new opportunities while building a strong pipeline of new business.
• Own the process. Manage opportunities from the first conversation through the close, keeping your pipeline organized and your follow-up timely.
• Keep learning. Stay curious about digital advertising trends, tools, and ways to deliver value.

Skills

Goal-driven mindset

Communication skills

Time management

Creative thinking

Resilience

Client-first approach

Adaptability

Education

Bachelor's degree in marketing/advertising

Tools

Google Analytics

Job description

Business Development Executive

Waterloo, IA | Hybrid work options available

Love making connections, spotting opportunities, and turning a good conversation into new business? Let’s talk.

Lee Enterprises is hiring a Business Development Executive to sell advertising solutions to businesses in Waterloo and the surrounding area, combining our trusted local news brands with a full suite of digital marketing services.

You’ll bring curiosity, creativity, and a drive to win. You’ll sell print advertising and special sections, plus a broad portfolio of digital services including search, social, display, email, and website solutions to help you build solutions that fit your clients’ goals.

This position offers a hybrid work option, combining remote work with time in the office and in-person client meetings throughout the Waterloo area.

What you’ll do

• Open doors. Find new prospects, build relationships, and turn introductions into lasting partnerships.
• Get to know the business. Ask thoughtful questions, understand each client’s challenges, and recommend advertising solutions that make sense.
• Build and maintain a client portfolio. Meet monthly and quarterly revenue goals and use campaign results to show clients their return on investment.
• Bring ideas to life. Develop and present creative digital and multimedia campaigns that connect businesses with their audiences.
• Grow your accounts. Help existing clients discover new opportunities while building a strong pipeline of new business.
• Own the process. Manage opportunities from the first conversation through the close, keeping your pipeline organized and your follow-up timely.
• Keep learning. Stay curious about digital advertising trends, tools, and ways to deliver value.

What you’ll bring

• A goal-driven mindset and the initiative to go after new opportunities.
• Strong communication, presentation, and negotiation skills.
• The ability to manage your time, set priorities, and follow through.
• Creative thinking backed by sound business judgment.
• Resilience when you hear “not right now” and resourcefulness in finding the next opportunity.
• A client-first approach and an interest in helping local businesses succeed.
• Comfort with change and a willingness to learn new products and technology.

Preferred qualifications

• Three or more years of sales experience. Digital advertising experience is a plus, but it isn’t required.
• A bachelor’s degree in marketing, advertising, or an equivalent combination of education and work experience.
• A track record of growing revenue through new business development and existing client relationships.
• Familiarity with digital advertising technology, research tools, and analytics platforms such as Google Analytics.