Senior Media Operations Leader - job 1 of 3

Our client, a privately owned, multi-market media organization, is seeking an experienced senior leader to oversee publishing and media operations across multiple U.S. regions. This executive role, based in Madison, Wisconsin, combines strategic business leadership, revenue growth, operational oversight, and external market engagement within a dynamic media environment.

The successful candidate will be responsible for the overall performance and growth of a portfolio of media brands, working closely with commercial, content, and operational teams. This role requires a strong balance of financial accountability, people leadership, and an appreciation for quality content in an evolving, multi-platform media landscape.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and execute advertising and revenue strategies across print, digital, and emerging platforms
• Identify and drive new revenue opportunities, including audience growth and diversified monetization
• Provide executive oversight of market-level operations, ensuring performance against financial and strategic goals
• Lead, mentor, and develop cross-functional teams across sales, content, and operations
• Partner with editorial leadership to uphold content standards, audience trust, and brand credibility
• Represent the organization externally with key business, community, and industry stakeholders
• Support modernization initiatives related to digital products, audience engagement, and operational efficiency
• Manage budgets, forecasts, and financial performance reporting across assigned markets

Required Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Communications, Journalism, or a related field
• 7+ years of progressive leadership experience in media, publishing, advertising, or audience-driven organizations
• 5+ years of experience leading teams and managing managers
• Demonstrated P&L responsibility and consistent revenue performance
• Strong understanding of multi-channel advertising and monetization models
• Experience leading cross-functional teams in complex operating environments
• Excellent communication, leadership, and stakeholder management skills
• Strategic mindset with the ability to execute at an operational level
• Comfort working across both legacy and evolving digital media platforms

Preferred Qualifications

• Advanced degree (MBA or related field)
• 10+ years of experience in media, publishing, or comparable industries
• Prior experience in a general management or senior operational leadership role
• Experience overseeing multi-market or regional business units
• Track record of leading transformation, modernization, or growth initiatives
• Exposure to non-traditional or diversified revenue streams (events, sponsorships, branded content, etc.)

• Competitive base salary ($92k to $136k depending on experience) with performance-based incentives

• Comprehensive benefits package including health coverage, retirement plan, and paid time off
• Professional development and leadership growth opportunities

Equal Employment Opportunity and Non-Discrimination Policy

Equal Employment Opportunity Statement: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are Equal Opportunity Employers. For all positions, whether with Keller Executive Search or our clients, qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, skin color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, gender expression, national origin, age, protected veteran status, disability, genetic information, or any other legally protected status.

Commitment to Diversity: Keller Executive Search and its clients are committed to fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all individuals are valued and respected.

Reasonable Accommodations: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to providing reasonable accommodations to individuals with disabilities and pregnant individuals. We engage in an interactive process to determine effective, reasonable accommodations.

Compensation Information: For client positions, compensation information is available in the job post. If not provided, it will be shared during the interview process in accordance with applicable laws. When required by law, salary ranges will be included in job postings. Actual salary may depend on skills, experience, and comparison to current employees in similar roles. Salary ranges may vary based on role and location.

Compliance with Laws: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with federal, state, and local laws governing nondiscrimination in employment. This policy applies to all employment terms and conditions, including recruiting, hiring, placement, promotion, termination, layoff, recall, transfer, leaves of absence, compensation, and training.

Workplace Harassment: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients expressly prohibit any form of workplace harassment based on race, skin color, religion, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, national origin, age, genetic information, disability, or veteran status.

E-Verify Participation: Keller Executive Search and/or our clients may participate in E-Verify. Information about E-Verify participation will be provided during the application process where applicable.

Privacy and Pay Equity:

• California Residents: For more information about the categories of personal information we collect for recruiting and employment purposes, please review our Privacy Policy.
• Colorado, Nevada, New York City, California, and Washington Residents: Compensation information is available in the job post or will be provided during the interview process if not initially available.
• Both Keller Executive Search and our clients are committed to pay equity and conduct periodic pay equity analyses in accordance with applicable laws.

State-Specific Information:

• Rhode Island: We do not request or require salary history from applicants.
• Connecticut: We provide wage range information upon request or before discussing compensation.
• New Jersey: We do not inquire about salary history unless voluntarily disclosed.

Veteran Status: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients provide equal employment opportunities to veterans and comply with applicable state laws regarding veteran preference in employment. If you are a veteran, please inform us during the application process.

Use of Artificial Intelligence in Recruitment: Keller Executive Search and our clients may use artificial intelligence (AI) tools to assist in the recruitment and candidate evaluation process. These tools are used exclusively to support human decision-making by helping to review and assess candidate qualifications and materials. AI is never used to automatically reject, disqualify, or make final hiring decisions about candidates. All AI-assisted evaluations are reviewed by experienced recruitment professionals, and all hiring decisions are made by qualified human recruiters. Our use of AI is designed to enhance fairness, consistency, and efficiency while maintaining our commitment to equal employment opportunity and non-discrimination principles. 

Genetic Information: In accordance with federal and state laws, both Keller Executive Search and our clients do not discriminate based on genetic information. We do not request or require genetic information from applicants or employees, except as permitted by law.

Local Laws: Both Keller Executive Search and our clients comply with all applicable local laws and ordinances regarding employment practices in the areas where we operate.

Note: This job posting may be for a position with Keller Executive Search or one of our clients. The specific employer will be identified during the application and interview process. Employment laws and requirements may vary depending on the employer and location.