Lead Sales Planner

Welcome to Warner Bros. Discovery... the stuff dreams are made of.

Who We Are...

When we say, "the stuff dreams are made of," we're not just referring to the world of wizards, dragons and superheroes, or even to the wonders of Planet Earth. Behind WBD's vast portfolio of iconic content and beloved brands, are the storytellers bringing our characters to life, the creators bringing them to your living rooms and the dreamers creating what's next...

From brilliant creatives, to technology trailblazers, across the globe, WBD offers career defining opportunities, thoughtfully curated benefits, and the tools to explore and grow into your best selves. Here you are supported, here you are celebrated, here you can thrive.

Your New Role...

The Lead Sales Planner plays a critical role in supporting the Advertising Sales (Ad Sales) team by developing strategic media plans, managing key client relationships, and ensuring the smooth execution of advertising campaigns. This role serves as a bridge between sales, creative, operations, and clients, ensuring that all campaigns are delivered with excellence and aligned with client objectives.

You anticipate how decisions are made, persistently explore and understand the business needs of CNN's key clients, and know how our range of product offerings can grow their and our businesses across pre-sale, post-sales functions, as well as the digital platform.

You will be responsible for assisting the full sales cycle from pre-sales through campaign execution. You must be professional, organized and motivated, as well as have the drive to succeed in a fast-paced environment. You will be a reliable support resource who can anticipate client and sales team needs. The role includes analysis, planning, research, project management and brainstorming.

• Execute sales initiatives to reach Ad Sales team's quarterly goals
• Prepare pitch decks and proposals for potential clients
• Provide the ultimate best client service and ensure potential clients and agencies get the attention they need and deserve
• Liaise with Ad Sales Operations, Marketing and Create teams to deliver the best solutions for clients
• Provide information and liaison for proactive sales pitches with direct clients and media agencies, including an understanding of Sponsorship offerings and interaction with commercial production for associated materials.
• Provide post-campaign summary reports and presentations for Ad Sales team to follow-up with clients and media agencies
• Establish relationships with key contacts in clients/agencies to facilitate the smooth implementation of campaign
• Verify and process invoices with Accounting services team on billing and payment issues throughout the sales process
• Mentor and support junior planners, including the sharing of best practices and industry knowledge

• A bachelor's degree in a related field is required
• 5+ years' experience in sales planning or advertising agency
• Strong experience working with Excel and PowerPoint required
• Strong work ethic and ability to multi-task - must be able to juggle multiple projects and clients
• Good knowledge of CNN and sales procedure
• Strong understanding of digital and broadcast media, with a strategic mindset and attention to detail.
• Proactive and engaging, with a positive approach towards problem-solving
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English and additional languages, with a strong attention to detail
• Passion for storytelling, branding, and delivering client success