Sales Development Representative Academy

About TEGNA

TEGNA Inc. (NYSE: TGNA) serves local communities across the U.S. through trustworthy journalism, engaging content, and tools that help people navigate their daily lives. Through customized marketing solutions, we help businesses grow and thrive. With 64 television stations in 51 U.S. markets, TEGNA reaches approximately 100 million people every month across the web, mobile apps, streaming, and linear television. For more information, visit TEGNA.com.

 

 

 

If you’re looking for a career-launching opportunity in media sales, apply today to join TEGNA’s 2025 SDR Academy! Here, you’ll be part of a tight-knit, community-driven team—not just another number in a large program. Our highly personalized, hands-on approach ensures that every SDR receives dedicated mentorship, real-world experience, and the support needed to grow. With a select class and summer interns, you’ll collaborate in a close, supportive environment where your development truly matters. At TEGNA, we invest in your success—because when you grow, we grow.

About the SDR Academy at TEGNA
TEGNA’s Sales Development Representative (SDR) Academy is an immersive, 12-month program designed for individuals entering the media sales industry. Whether you’re a recent graduate, career changer, or early-career professional, this program equips you with the skills and experience needed to excel in media sales.

Our hybrid model seamlessly blends in-office collaboration & real-world field experience, preparing SDRs for a dynamic sales career adaptable to any work environment—whether in the office, working remotely, or meeting clients in the field. Based out of the Dallas Office (WFAA), SDRs will be assigned to specific TEGNA markets with both the opportunity and goal of relocating to their designated market once they transition into a full-time sales position.

This program offers hands-on training, professional development, and mentorship to fast-track participants into full-time media sales roles within TEGNA. While the standard program is 12 months, graduation timelines are flexible—top performers can move into sales roles before the 12-month mark, while others may extend their training if additional development is needed.

What You’ll Do as an SDR
• Generate new business: Drive a consistent pipeline of qualified inbound and outbound leads at the early stages of the sales funnel.
• Prospect strategically: Master outreach through phone, email, social media, and in-person connections to secure high-value sales meetings.
• Conduct research & discovery: In partnership with select Account Executives, identify potential clients’ business needs and marketing challenges to align them with TEGNA’s solutions.
• Collaborate with Account Executives: Partner with sales leaders to transition prospects into full sales discussions and accelerate deal progression.
• Leverage industry insights: Develop a strong understanding of media sales, advertising trends, and digital transformation to become a consultative sales professional.
• Adapt to sales technology: Pilot new CRM tools, AI-driven prospecting solutions, and sales automation platforms as part of TEGNA’s innovation efforts.
• Expand SDR influence across TEGNA markets & national accounts.

Who We’re Looking For:
We are seeking high-energy, driven, and coachable individuals who are passionate about sales and the media industry.. While prior media experience is not required, candidates should demonstrate a strong interest in business development and client relationships.

Ideal candidates have:
• Experience in sales, customer service, or hospitality
• Excellent communication skills with a natural ability to build relationships.
• A competitive and goal-oriented mindset, eager to learn and grow.
• The ability to work independently and adapt to a hybrid work model—balancing office collaboration, remote work, and in-field client engagement.

Why Join the SDR Academy?
• Fast-track career growth: Move into a permanent sales position within approximately 12 months based on performance.
• Comprehensive sales training: Gain real-world experience and learn best-in-class sales techniques from the best in the media industry.
• Mentorship & coaching: Work closely with experienced sales leaders and gain hands-on guidance.
• Competitive compensation & bonuses: Performance-based incentives available.
• Opportunities for relocation: Work with specific TEGNA markets and transition to full-time sales roles in those regions.
• Exposure to Media, Digital & Streaming sales: Develop skills applicable to Digital & Streaming advertising, Broadcast a