Fractional CRO, The Modern Ruralist

Company Description The Modern Ruralist is a fast-growing independent media brand documenting remarkable craftspeople, makers and rural lives across Britain.

Through distinctive short documentary films, it has built a substantial and highly engaged audience across Instagram and Facebook, with several films exceeding a million views.

The Modern Ruralist is now looking to develop a small number of carefully selected commercial partnerships that can support its continued growth while protecting the editorial independence and authenticity of the work.

Role Description I’m looking for an experienced freelance Commercial Partnerships Lead to help develop the commercial side of The Modern Ruralist.

This is not a conventional full-time sales role. Initially, I’m looking for an experienced freelancer or fractional commercial lead who can identify, approach and develop relationships with brands and organisations that are a natural fit with Modern Ruralist and its audience.

The role would include: helping shape a clear commercial proposition; identifying and approaching appropriate prospective partners; developing relationships with brands, agencies and decision-makers; assessing inbound commercial opportunities; negotiating fees, deliverables, usage rights and partnership terms; helping establish appropriate commercial rates and processes.

The emphasis will be on fewer, better partnerships. Protecting the credibility of The Modern Ruralist is more important than maximising the number of commercial deals.

There is already a substantial audience and proven body of work. I am looking for someone who can help translate that momentum into a thoughtful and sustainable commercial model.

Qualifications I’m looking for someone with a strong track record in commercial partnerships, ideally within media, publishing, branded content, entertainment, lifestyle or the creator economy.

You should have: demonstrable experience originating and closing partnerships; strong relationships with relevant brands, agencies and marketing decision-makers; experience valuing content, audiences and usage rights; excellent commercial and negotiating judgement; the ability to work independently; an understanding of the importance of editorial integrity when building commercial partnerships around a trusted media brand.

Experience of rural Britain or traditional crafts is not essential.

This is initially a freelance/fractional opportunity. I am open to discussing the most appropriate structure, potentially combining a modest freelance commitment with commission on partnerships secured.