Backfence: General Manager, Chicago Area Local Community Web Sites

Backfence.com is looking for an entrepreneurial, dynamic, hard-working, experienced business person to lead the development, rollout and management of our community Web sites in the Chicago suburbs. Backfence is a unique new concept in online communities: a network of hyperlocal news and information Web sites whose content is created entirely by its users. This is a senior-level position that might be likened to the publisher of a group of community newspapers, and requires many of the same skills. The ideal candidate should be a seasoned pro with P&L experience, preferably in a locally focused publishing/media environment; be experienced in overseeing media sales representatives (preferably online sales); have experience with innovative consumer marketing programs; and have an appreciation for the value of great local content to excite an audience of consumers and advertisers. Backfence is creating a nationwide network of hyperlocal citizens’ media sites that is unique and fills a community need, but we are also experimenting with models and approaches to the market. We are a fast-growing, fast-moving entrepreneurial company that is looking for team members with the same attributes. The ideal candidate will be flexible, imaginative and a great leader of a local staff of pioneers.
Responsibilities of the Backfence Chicago General Manager position will include:
* Building a small team to create and operate our community Web sites in the Chicago area, starting with suburban markets.
* Working with the corporate staff to determine ideal target communities for our product in the Chicago area.
* Meeting clearly defined advertising and audience participation metrics, including local advertising revenue, page views, site memberships and member-participation targets.
* Overseeing local sales, marketing and content staffs.
* Setting local advertising revenue targets and overseeing a local sales staff.
* Overseeing the growth of community group participation and increasing viral grassroots participation through local outreach and marketing efforts.
* Working with community members and organizations to encourage their participation in our sites.
* Sharing local best practices with counterparts in other markets around the country.
This is a senior-level position. Serious inquiries only please.
Contact: Send inquiries to jobs@backfence.com

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