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Executive Film Programming Jobs in Chicago, IL (NOW HIRING)

We produce and distribute premier filmed entertainment and programming through our powerhouse film ... Work independently with guidance from the Executive Producer, the team and station management

We produce and distribute premier filmed entertainment and programming through our powerhouse film ... Work independently with guidance from the Executive Producer, the team and station management

We produce and distribute premier filmed entertainment and programming through our powerhouse film ... Work independently with guidance from the Executive Producer, the team and station management

Executive Film Programming information

See Chicago, IL salary details

$27.3K

$96.4K

$189.5K

How much do executive film programming jobs pay per year?

As of Aug 25, 2026, the average yearly pay for executive film programming in Chicago, IL is $96,372.00, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $59,700.00 and $124,100.00 per year, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is executive film programming?

Executive Film Programming is a senior role in the film industry responsible for curating, selecting, and scheduling films for distribution, film festivals, or television networks. These professionals assess potential film acquisitions, negotiate rights, and shape the overall viewing lineup to match organizational goals and audience interests. They often collaborate with filmmakers, distributors, and marketing teams to ensure a diverse and engaging slate of films. Executive Film Programmers play a key role in determining the success and reputation of a film venue or platform.

How does an executive film programmer typically collaborate with other departments in a film festival or cinema organization?

Executive Film Programmers work closely with marketing, operations, and technical teams to ensure successful screenings and audience engagement. They often coordinate with the marketing department to promote selected films and with operations to manage scheduling and logistics. Additionally, they may interact with guest services and hospitality teams to accommodate filmmakers and special guests. Effective collaboration is essential for curating a compelling program and delivering a seamless event experience.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive as an executive film programmer, and why are they important?

To thrive as an Executive Film Programmer, you need an in-depth knowledge of film history, current industry trends, and strong analytical skills, often supported by a background in film studies, media, or a related field. Familiarity with film scheduling software, rights management systems, and databases is typically required. Exceptional negotiation, networking, and communication skills help in building relationships with distributors, filmmakers, and festival partners. These competencies ensure the successful curation, acquisition, and presentation of compelling film lineups that attract audiences and achieve organizational goals.

What is the difference between Executive Film Programming vs Film Curator?

AspectExecutive Film ProgrammingFilm Curator
CredentialsExperience in film industry, possibly with management or programming certificationsBackground in film history, curation, or arts management, often with academic credentials
Work EnvironmentFilm festivals, theaters, media companies, cultural institutionsMuseums, film archives, cultural institutions, festivals
Employer & Industry UsageUsed in entertainment, media, and cultural sectors for overseeing programming decisionsCommon in arts and cultural sectors focusing on film curation and preservation

While both roles involve selecting films for audiences, Executive Film Programming typically focuses on managing film schedules, acquiring rights, and overseeing programming strategies at festivals or theaters. Film Curators often emphasize historical context, thematic organization, and preservation efforts. The roles may overlap, but Executive Film Programmers are more involved in operational and strategic decisions, whereas Film Curators focus on artistic and historical aspects.

What are the most commonly searched types of Film Programming jobs in Chicago, IL?

The most popular types of Film Programming jobs in Chicago, IL are:

Infographic showing various Executive Film Programming job openings in Chicago, IL as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 84% Full Time, 12% Part Time, and 4% Contract. Highlights an 84% Physical, 5% Hybrid, and 11% Remote job distribution, with an average salary of $96,372 per year, or $46.3 per hour.

Sales Account Executive, NBCU Local Chicago

NBCUniversal

Chicago, IL

Full-time

Medical, Dental, Vision, Retirement, PTO

Re-posted 19 days ago


Job description

Company Description

NBCUniversal is one of the world's leading media and entertainment companies. We create world-class content, which we distribute across our portfolio of film, television, and streaming, and bring to life through our global theme park destinations, consumer products, and experiences. We own and operate leading entertainment and news brands, including NBC, NBC News, NBC Sports, Telemundo, NBC Local Stations, Bravo, and Peacock, our premium ad-supported streaming service. We produce and distribute premier filmed entertainment and programming through our powerhouse film and television studios, including Universal Pictures, DreamWorks Animation, and Focus Features, and the four global television studios under the Universal Studio Group banner, and operate industry-leading theme parks and experiences around the world through Universal Destinations & Experiences, including Universal Orlando Resort, home to Universal Epic Universe, and Universal Studios Hollywood. NBCUniversal is a subsidiary of Comcast Corporation. Visit www.nbcuniversal.com for more information.

Our impact is rooted in improving the communities where our employees, customers, and audiences live and work. We have a rich tradition of giving back and ensuring our employees have the opportunity to serve their communities. We champion an inclusive culture and strive to attract and develop a talented workforce to create and deliver a wide range of content reflecting our world.

Job Description

NBC Chicago is seeking a dynamic and digitally fluent Account Executive to drive revenue growth across our industry-leading portfolio of linear, streaming, and advanced advertising solutions. This role is ideal for candidates with experience selling CTV, OTT, digital video, programmatic, audience-based, or performance-driven media solutions who are eager to represent one of the most powerful premium content portfolios in the marketplace. The Account Executive will be responsible for developing new business opportunities and growing existing client relationships across NBCUniversal's portfolio, including Peacock, NBC, Telemundo, NBC Sports, FAST channels, and advanced advertising solutions.

Key Responsibilities

  • Drive revenue across linear television, Peacock, digital video, programmatic, and audience-based advertising solutions.
  • Develop consultative relationships with advertisers and agencies to uncover business objectives and translate them into effective marketing solutions.
  • Collaborate with agency trading teams, programmatic buyers, and client stakeholders to activate campaigns through both direct and automated buying channels.
  • Leverage NBCUniversal's first-party data, audience solutions, and attribution capabilities to deliver measurable client outcomes.
  • Prospect new business opportunities and consistently build a strong sales pipeline.
  • Work cross-functionally with planning, account management, ad operations, research, marketing, and programmatic specialists.
  • Present market insights, audience strategies, campaign performance results, and integrated solutions to clients.
  • Develop proposals and negotiate advertising partnerships across streaming, digital, and broadcast platforms.
Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree or equivalent professional experience.
  • 3+ years of media sales experience or a supporting role with exceptional knowledge of OTT/Programmatic execution.
  • Strong background in:
    • Streaming/OTT
    • Connected TV (CTV)
    • Programmatic advertising
    • Digital video sales
    • Ad tech
    • Agency trading desks
    • Demand-side platforms (DSPs)
  • Knowledge of platforms such as FreeWheel, Operative, Salesforce, Prisma, DV360, The Trade Desk, or similar advertising technology tools.
  • Familiarity with Nielsen, Comscore, and digital measurement solutions.
  • Experience working with advertisers, agencies, programmatic teams, or media buyers.
  • Understanding of audience targeting, identity solutions, measurement, attribution, and data-driven marketing.
  • Proven ability to generate new business and exceed revenue goals.
  • Excellent presentation, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.
  • Must be able to travel as needed for client meetings and internal collaboration.

Success Factors

The successful candidate will be:

  • A consultative seller who understands both traditional and ever-changing digital media.
  • Passionate about streaming, OTT/CTV, and programmatic advertising.
  • Keep up with digital trends to help understand the client.
  • Results-oriented with a hunter mentality for new business development.
  • Skilled at building long-term client partnerships.
  • Comfortable navigating a rapidly evolving advertising and media landscape.
  • Ability to manage multiple priorities in a fast-paced environment.

Additional Job Requirements:

  • Must be 21 years or greater 
  • Must have unrestricted authorization to work in the United States
  • Must be willing to work in Chicago, IL
  • Interested candidates must submit a resume/CV to this job through www.nbcunicareers.com 

Additional information

Hybrid: This position has been designated as hybrid, generally contributing from the office a minimum of four days per week.

This position is eligible for company sponsored benefits, including medical, dental and vision insurance, 401(k), paid leave, tuition reimbursement, and a variety of other discounts and perks. Learn more about the benefits offered by NBCUniversal by visiting the Benefits page of the Careers website.

Salary range: $90,000 - $130,000 (SIC eligible)

Additional Information

As part of our selection process, external candidates may be required to attend an in-person interview with an NBCUniversal employee at one of our locations prior to a hiring decision. NBCUniversal's policy is to provide equal employment opportunities to all applicants and employees without regard to race, color, religion, creed, gender, gender identity or expression, age, national origin or ancestry, citizenship, disability, sexual orientation, marital status, pregnancy, veteran status, membership in the uniformed services, genetic information, or any other basis protected by applicable law.

If you are a qualified individual with a disability or a disabled veteran and require support throughout the application and/or recruitment process as a result of your disability, you have the right to request a reasonable accommodation. You can submit your request to [email protected].