Director, Business Development

Job Description

The Washington Post is searching for a Director of Business Development to lead our global efforts for new growth initiatives. Reporting directly to the Head of Partnerships & Corporate Development, you will build and oversee a team of specialists dedicated to scoping and scaling zero-to-one opportunities across the full breadth of The Washington Post.

Your role will span all facets of business development including go-to-market planning, pipeline development, pitching, negotiation, and implementation. Partnering closely with divisions across the company, including the Newsroom, Product, Subscriptions, & Client Solutions teams, you will be a key cross-functional leader bringing new initiatives to life. 

Motivation

• You have a deep commitment to advancing The Washington Post’s mission of becoming the world’s leading news organization through innovation and creative partnerships.

• You are comfortable with the ambiguity and able to lead teams through periods of uncertainty and transformation towards developing new business and driving revenue growth.

• You have a deep network of partners and clients across the technology and media industry and a track record of delivering results. 

Key Responsibilities

• Establish and lead the new business development function by setting business development goals and developing short-term and mid-term operational plans that support the overall company business strategy. 

• Drive new revenue growth by pursuing and executing unique partnerships with key industry businesses and innovators ranging from artificial intelligence companies to emerging technology platforms. 

• Pioneer ways of working with publishers and creators, supporting emerging editorial initiatives and new products & technology.

• Lead efforts to bolster our subscriptions offerings with innovative partnerships with platforms, payment companies, and local institutions, added exponential value for our customers and category-defining benefits for our partners. 

• Negotiate contract terms with speed and rigor, ensuring mutually beneficial agreements. 

• Build scalable programs and practices for both internal stakeholder and external partner management, resulting in sustainable and successful go-to-market plans and satisfied partners. 

• Represent the company at external events, conferences, and other high profile opportunities. 

• Monitor industry trends and competitive landscape to inform strategic decisions. 

• Hire, manage, and mentor a team of business development professionals, fostering a high-performance culture. 

Qualifications

• 10+ years of prior experience in Business Development, strategy, management consulting, or investment banking experience and JD, MBA or advanced degree preferred but not required.

• Proven track record (5+ years) of experience building & managing high performing teams.

• Deep understanding of the media and/or technology industry, including trends, challenges, and opportunities. Experience with AI, Creators, and/or Subscription businesses preferred but not required. 

• Strong presentation and transactional skills, including prospecting, negotiation, and closing deals.

• Proven ability to drive cross-functional collaboration, aligning disconnected strategies with broader business objectives, and influencing stakeholders at all levels.

• Strong analytical skills and quantitative capabilities, utilizing data-driven decision-making to optimize marketing efforts, achieve subscription targets, and challenge assumptions through research and performance metrics.

• Exhibit flexibility, adaptability, and strategic focus in a fast-paced, evolving environment, with the ability to pivot strategies in response to changing conditions.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to build and maintain strong relationships with C-level clients and industry stakeholders.

Compensation and Benefits

Wherever you are in your life or career, The Washington Post offers comprehensive and inclusive benefits for every step of your journey:

• Competitive medical, dental and vision coverage

• Company-paid pension and 401(k) match

• Three weeks of vacation and up to three weeks of paid sick leave

• Nine paid holidays and two personal days

• 20 weeks paid parental leave for any new parent

• Robust mental health resources

• Backup care and caregiver concierge services

• Gender affirming services

• Pet insurance

• Free Post digital subscription

• Leadership and career development programs

Benefits may vary based on the job, full-time or part-time schedule, location, and collectively bargained status.

The salary range for this position is:

The actual salary within this range will depend on individual skills, experience, and qualifications as they relate to specific job requirements. This position may be eligible for a bonus or incentive program, and a member of the Talent Acquisition team will discuss bonus payment terms and conditions during the interview process.

The Post strives to provide its readers with high-quality, trustworthy news and information while constantly innovating. That mission is best served by a diverse, multi-generational workforce with varied life experiences and perspectives. All cultures and backgrounds are welcomed. 

The innovation doesn’t end in the Newsroom – dozens of teams power The Washington Post.  We are now hiring the next innovator – how will you Impact Tomorrow?

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