The Center for Sales Strategy (CSS) unveils the 2021 Talent Superhero winners, a list comprised of sales managers in radio and TV who are recognized for recruiting, selecting, developing, and engaging top sales execs in their markets.
CSS notes that they received the highest number of nominations since the recognition awards were launched in 2017, “which is a true testament to the leadership, work ethic, and skill of these managers and the cultures they create for their teams,” Beth Sunshine, Partner and VP of Talent Services at The Center for Sales Strategy said in a release. “The competition was the hardest it’s ever been, and it’s truly an honor to recognize these leaders for the amazing work they do for their teams and organizations day-in and day-out.”
Winners are selected by a committee that reviews the skills and success of each nominee based on building and maintaining a strong talent bank, recruiting top talent to the organization, coaching people to maximize their strengths, engaging their team, and retaining top performers over time.
The 2021 Talent Superheroes are (listed alphabetically by first name): Amy Coplen, LSM, Tegna, Austin; Angelina Rosario, DOS, Cox Media Group, Miami; Carolyn McCulligh, VP of Advertising, McClatchy, West Region; Darlene Park, DOS, Bonneville International, Denver; Fran Mallace, Former Group VP of Cox Media Group and current CEO of Make-A-Wish Arizona; Frank Palino, DOS, Tegna, Seattle; James Conner, DOS, Emmis Communications, Indianapolis; Jason Finkelberg, Market President/CRO, Townsquare Media, Hudson Valley; Jim Richmond, DOS, Bonneville International, Seattle; Jimmy Farrell, DOS, Cox Media Group, Jacksonville; Maryann Balbo, Group VP, Cox Media Group; Sarah Dobbins, VP of Sales, Townsquare Media, Northern New England; Scott Hopeck, Division President, iHeartMedia, New York.
Additionally, Balbo joins the Talent Superhero “League of Legends” as she is the first Talent Superhero recipient to receive the award two times (2018 and 2021).