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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