Director of Media – Swanson Russell

Company Description
Nebraska-based Swanson Russell is the nation’s leading advertising and branding agency for brands that work and play outdoors. Our crew of big thinkers, go-getters, and team players uncovers insights that unleash new possibilities for brands. It’s how we build genuine trust that strengthens over time, it’s how we MAKE BELIEF in the brands we represent. It starts internally with a culture of camaraderie and believing in each other, regardless of beliefs or backgrounds. We are real people who are passionate about making a difference. If that sounds like you, apply today.

Job Summary
We are seeking a visionary and results-driven Director of Media to lead our media department in developing impactful, multi-channel media strategies across traditional, digital, programmatic, and paid social channels. The ideal candidate is a big thinker who is passionate about the evolving media landscape, capable of leveraging new platforms with bold ideas that deliver measurable results. You will inspire the team to innovate, execute effectively, and drive meaningful outcomes for both the agency and our clients. This role requires a strategic mindset, a focus on achieving client goals, and a commitment to pushing boundaries in media planning.

Key Responsibilities:

• Drive innovation in media planning, execution, and optimization across all channels to exceed client expectations.
• Lead the development of multi-channel media strategies that integrate programmatic, social, digital, and traditional tactics.
• Use data-driven insights and advanced analytics to evaluate media options and create impactful media plans.
• Proactively pursue collaboration with agency strategists from other disciplines, including creative, account service, customer experience, and digital, to ensure cohesive, integrated marketing communications.
• Provide strategic direction for a talented media group, fostering a supportive environment and guiding their professional development.
• Present confidently in client, agency, and new business meetings, delivering persuasive media insights that reflect a deep understanding of today’s media landscape.
• Manage and develop the skills of your team through continuous feedback and scheduled performance evaluations.
• Champion ongoing learning by leading departmental training sessions focused on emerging media trends and best practices.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:

• Strong leadership skills, with a proven track record of inspiring teams and championing new ideas.
• Deep understanding of today’s media environment, including programmatic, digital, social, and emerging platforms.
• Ability to develop and articulate visionary media strategies that align with client objectives.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to present complex ideas clearly and persuasively.
• Strong analytical skills, with the ability to interpret audience data and market factors and apply them to media planning.
• Proven ability to foster relationships with clients, media partners, and cross-functional teams.

Education and Experience:

• Bachelor’s degree in Business, Advertising, Journalism, Marketing, Communications, or a related field.
• Minimum of 10 years of experience in media planning and strategy, with a demonstrated understanding of digital and traditional channels.
• 14+ years of experience in a related field may be considered in lieu of a degree.