Sales Development Representative (SDR) - Performance Digital

Job Summary: We’re looking for a motivated, curious, and coachable Sales Development Representative (SDR) to help build and qualify our sales pipeline for Performance Digital solutions. This is an entry-level sales role designed for individuals who want to break into B2B media and marketing sales. As an SDR, you’ll identify and engage potential clients, generate qualified opportunities, and collaborate closely with Account Executives to drive new business across the manufacturing sector.

Compensation: Competitive base salary + performance bonuses + clear path to commission-based Account Executive role.

About Us: Gardner Business Media connects North American manufacturers with the tools, insights, and audiences that power industrial growth. Through trusted brands like Modern Machine Shop, Plastics Technology, and others, we engage an unmatched network of manufacturing decision-makers. Our Performance Digital Suite delivers qualified leads, demand generation, and measurable ROI through high-performance digital channels and our proprietary GROW Industrial dashboards.

Responsibilities

• Research and identify prospective clients across targeted manufacturing markets using tools like LinkedIn, CRM, and marketing data.
• Execute warm and cold outreach via email, phone, and social channels to drive initial engagement.
• Qualify inbound and outbound leads through discovery conversations and needs assessments.
• Schedule meetings and demos for Account Executives, ensuring smooth hand-offs.
• Maintain accurate CRM documentation of outreach, conversations, and pipeline activity.
• Collaborate with marketing and sales teams to refine messaging and outreach strategies.
• Meet or exceed activity and qualified opportunity goals on a monthly and quarterly basis.

Qualifications

• 1+ year of professional experience (sales, customer service, or marketing preferred).
• Strong communication and active listening skills, both verbal and written.
• Driven, organized, and eager to learn consultative B2B sales.
• Interest in digital media, industrial marketing, or manufacturing innovation.
• Comfortable using CRM tools (Salesforce or similar) and digital prospecting platforms.
• Bachelor’s degree preferred; local to the Cincinnati region encouraged.

Why Join Gardner Sales?

• Jump start your sales career with a proven pathway to promotion and high earning potential.
• Work with established brands and differentiated digital solutions supported by first-party data.
• Receive mentorship from experienced Account Executives and sales leaders.
• Contribute to the growth of a performance-driven digital business with real client ROI.
• Enjoy a collaborative, hybrid environment centered around learning, progress, and success.

If this sounds like the right fit for you, we want to talk.
Please submit your resume and a cover letter detailing your relevant experience and why you’re a great fit for this role to [email protected]. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.

Benefits:

• 401(k) matching
• Dental insurance
• Flexible schedule
• Health insurance
• Paid time off
• Tuition reimbursement
• Vision insurance

Application Question(s):

• Are you comfortable with high-volume outreach (cold calls, emails, messaging) as a core part of your daily work?
• Why are you interested in starting a career in B2B sales?
• Do you have at least 1 year of experience in sales, customer service, or a client-facing role?

Work Location: Hybrid remote in Cincinnati, OH 45244