Media Investment Strategist (Traditional Media Buyer)

Open position in all True Media office locations, including Kansas City, MO, Columbia, MO, St. Louis, MO, and Minneapolis, MN; Hybrid work schedule: 3 days in the office, 2 days working from home. Visa sponsorship is not available for this position, now or in the future. Applicants must be legally authorized to work in the United States on a permanent basis without requiring employer sponsorship. The Media Investment Strategist (Traditional Media Buyer) is primarily responsible for the tactical planning, purchase, execution and delivery of approved media plans in traditional media (television, radio, print, out of home), as well as in related digital video and audio channels. The Buyer assists in establishing appropriate tactical media channel strategies and budgets for clients. The Buyer must have a working and proficient understanding of media measurements and how to creatively apply them to the Agency’s objective of exceeding the client’s goals. Essential Duties and Responsibilities Media Strategy/Tactics – Participate in media planning/buying discussions relative to assigned client portfolio and channels. Develop and execute each client's tactical media plan within relevant traditional media channels and subsequent execution and delivery. Work seamlessly with Media Investment Supervisor/AMD/Director to integrate solutions into media plans for clients. Issue RFI and RFP efforts with existing and new vendors. Measurement and Delivery – Understand measurement strategies developed by the Integrated Media team and effectively demonstrate how those are interpreted in tactical media evaluation and campaign setup among channel specialties. Research – Study and compile data to identify desired tactics for media vehicles, including measurability and targetability, scale, and efficiency. Develop agency Point of Views (POVs) on various aspects of specialty channels for internal and/or external communications. Negotiations – Negotiate best (not necessarily lowest) possible rates that will deliver planned exposure. Secure relevant added value for all clients. Software and Systems – Coordinate troubleshooting with appropriate departments/teams. Vendor Relationships – Develop and maintain vendor relationships, forming partnerships and seeking innovative approaches/opportunities. Qualifications Two to Five years of professional work experience in media planning and buying. Strong understanding of media fundamentals including media math, reach/frequency, consumer/market research, plan development, analytics, measurement strategies laddering to business goals, etc. Ability to communicate effectively with supervisors, senior strategists and team leads regarding tactical strategies, ad specifications and campaign delivery requirements. Ability to analyze metrics from campaigns and provide insightful and constructive observations/recommendations to internal teams and clients. Develop and maintain positive relationships with vendors and demonstrate good negotiation skills that lead to competitive media rates for clients and agency. Proficient with media tools and systems, including Advantage, Strata, eTelmar, Scarborough, Simmons, Media Audit, Nielsen, Comscore among others. Education Bachelor's degree from a four-year college or university, degree or concentration in advertising, marketing or communications preferred; or an equivalent combination of education and experience. Total Perks Package The chance to be a part of a growing company and the next success story Amazing opportunities for career development Recognition programs Employee referral bonus Hybrid work schedule; 3 days in the office, 2 days working from home Fun and collaborative work environment Casual dress code Insurance Coverage (medical, dental, vision, life, and disability) 401(k) retirement plan, with employer 3% match Work/life benefits, including mental health and wellbeing support Robust Paid Time Off program, increasing with years of employment Paid holidays, including agency soft closing Christmas Eve–New Years Day Maternity, Paternity, and Adoption Paid Time Off, plus Voluntary Paid Leave Bank #J-18808-Ljbffr True Media