Media Strategist

Media StrategistMend Join Make (MJM) - Sioux Falls, SDFull-time | In-office with flexibilityCulture FirstAt Mend Join Make, we believe great marketing is built by great teammates.We are not looking for someone who simply places media buys. We are looking for someone who believes thoughtful media strategy shapes outcomes - someone who approaches their work with discipline, curiosity, and analytical clarity. Someone who understands that meaningful marketing happens when data, creativity, and strategy work together.Our culture is rooted in five values - Grace, Presence, Accountability, Curiosity, and Collaboration - and they are not decorative. They shape how we hire, how we evaluate performance, and how we grow.If you are energized by thoughtful work, high standards, and a team that challenges each other to be better, you will thrive here.Position OverviewThe Media Strategist develops and executes strategic media plans that amplify our clients' messages and drive measurable results.You will work across both traditional and digital channels - combining research, planning, negotiation, and performance analysis to ensure media investments are thoughtful, efficient, and effective.This role requires both strategic thinking and operational precision. You will collaborate closely with account, creative, and strategy teams while also maintaining strong relationships with media vendors and platform partners.We serve growth-minded organizations in healthcare, ophthalmology, nonprofit, and purpose-driven sectors. Our work requires both analytical rigor and thoughtful decision-making.What You'll DoDevelop comprehensive media plans aligned with client goals, audiences, and budgetsExecute and optimize media buys across traditional channels (TV, radio, print, out-of-home) and digital platforms (display, video, CTV, social, SEM)Conduct audience research and translate insights into strategic media recommendationsNegotiate and secure media placements with vendors and publishersTraffic media assets and ensure accurate campaign setup across platformsMonitor campaign performance and recommend optimizations based on KPIs and insightsPrepare clear, data-driven reports for clients and internal teamsMaintain relationships with media vendors, publishers, and platform partnersStay current on media trends, tools, and audience behaviorThis role requires both analytical discipline and strategic thinking.What Success Looks LikeMedia investments align clearly with client strategy and goalsCampaigns launch smoothly and perform efficientlyPerformance insights lead to thoughtful optimizations and stronger outcomesInternal teams and clients trust your recommendations and reportingVendor relationships help secure strong placements and value for clientsExperience & Skills5-8 years of experience in media planning or buying (agency or client side)Strong understanding of both traditional and digital advertising channelsProficiency with media platforms and tools such as Google Ads, Meta, programmatic DSPs, or similar systemsStrong analytical skills with the ability to translate data into actionable insightsExcellent communication and presentation skillsHighly organized with strong project management abilityExperience in healthcare or regulated industries is a plus.The MJM StandardWe hire and evaluate our team around five Core Values:GraceWe treat setbacks as opportunities to strengthen our work and relationships. We respond with patience and problem-solving rather than blame.PresenceWe engage fully - with our teammates, our clients, and the work - creating alignment and clarity through intentional focus.AccountabilityWe do what we say we're going to do, and we look back to ensure we did. We own our commitments and our outcomes.CuriosityWe seek understanding before acting. We ask better questions, challenge assumptions, and pursue insight that leads to better work.CollaborationWe believe the best outcomes are built together. Clear communication, defined roles, and openness to feedback elevate the work beyond what any one person could create alone.