Media Buyer Job at CJ in Chicago

Join to apply for the Media Buyer role at CJ

Welcome to Our World

We’ve been leading the charge in the affiliate industry from day one—establishing performance marketing and paving the way for future innovations. We're known for maintaining one of the largest, most reliable partnership platforms with impeccable, personalized service.

Company Description

Founded in Santa Barbara, California in 1998, CJ (formerly Commission Junction) stands as the most trusted name in performance marketing. We specialize in building partnerships between top brands and reputable publishers to drive revenue and business growth. CJ’s industry‑leading solutions make us the platform of choice for over 3,800 global brands across sectors such as retail, travel, finance, technology, and home services. As part of Publicis Groupe, our data capabilities, cutting‑edge tech, and strategic expertise enable genuine connections that help brands reach consumers wherever they are.

A Quick Peek at Affiliate Marketing

Think back to your last online purchase. Did an influencer tip you off about a great product and offer a discount? Or rely on a trusted review site to make your decision? Affiliate publishers often play a role by influencing, informing, or helping you find the best deal. CJ connects brands with publishers, creating valuable resources for shoppers.

Overview

As a Media Buyer, you will support CJ’s advertisers by acting as an extension of their team. Your responsibilities include maintaining publisher relationships, creating recruitment and optimization campaigns, developing affiliate marketing strategies, and managing Client Partnerships Associates in their tactical execution.

Responsibilities

• Prepare strategic and revenue‑generating opportunities to present directly to clients
• Identify new sources of revenue by owning and building top‑tier publisher relationships, negotiating media placements and packages, evaluating performance, and making recommendations for future investments
• Recruit, manage and develop top‑tier publisher relationships on behalf of advertisers, communicating expectations, sharing best practices, disseminating offers and promotions, and providing account updates to an advertiser’s growing publisher base
• Help advertisers improve the effectiveness and efficiency of their affiliate spend by building and interpreting program performance data
• Possibility to lead overall strategy and execution of an advertiser’s affiliate program
• Collaborate with cross‑departmental teams to identify and troubleshoot complex program management and technical challenges
• Align with Client Development team to ensure accurate execution and timeliness of internal and client deliverables
• Mentor Client Partnerships Associates: coach, provide guidance and best practices to help team members succeed at CJ

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree or related work experience and a minimum of 2 years’ experience in the online marketing industry—ideally digital performance marketing
• Clear and effective communication skills, able to convey complex results in a simple, clear manner, with a strong eye for business and competent command of digital marketing concepts
• Ability to influence and develop account strategies that employ analysis and insights to meet or exceed advertiser objectives
• Ability to complete a variety of tasks within designated time frames, delivering exceptional quality results and directly contributing to the formation of client campaigns and quarterly business results
• Results‑oriented problem solver
• Proficient knowledge of the Microsoft Office suite (Windows, Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• Respectful of varying opinions and perspectives

Additional Information

This is a hybrid role requiring 3 days a week in office. CJ is the leader in Performance Marketing. We equip our teams with advanced tools, training, and career development opportunities to deliver high‑quality results for our clients. We foster an inclusive culture where diverse perspectives are valued and employees feel accepted and empowered. If you require accommodation or assistance with the application or onboarding process, please contact USMSTACompliance@publicis.com.

Why Our Workplace Stands Out

• Competitive salaries, 401(k) matching, wellness programs, and comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage
• Flexible time off without the hassle of accrual
• Generous number of paid holidays
• Company‑sponsored team‑building events
• Employee Referral Program
• Annual recognition awards
• Hybrid work arrangements for optimal work‑life balance
• Parental bonding leave
• Backup care options for children and elders
• Employee discount program
• International SOS program for global support
• Business Resource Groups to cultivate an inclusive environment

Compensation Range

$77,990 – $86,680 annually. This pay range reflects the company’s estimate of the position at the time of posting. Compensation will be determined based on qualifications and experience. The deadline for applications is 2/7/26.

EEO Statement

All your information will be kept confidential according to EEO guidelines.