ITM Newspaper Media Buying Services

Jody Merl has led an exciting and industrious career to develop a strategic business niche, fueled by her entrepreneurial spirit. The founder and president of Innovative Travel Marketing (ITM) since 1992, launched ITM Newspaper Media Buying Services in 2017. She now leads two powerhouse companies that presciently changed the landscape of media planning and buying. Her successful media-buying venture has shrugged off the end of print and affirmed newspaper as the most trusted and lucrative form of advertising.

Digital may be king, but to Merl, newspaper is the humble, hard working emperor. Her division of ITM Newspaper Media Buying Services reflects her passion for multi-platform newspaper — print, digital and mobile — in service to an ever-expanding, loyal client base. With an “above & beyond” philosophy, they have forged solid relationships with wide-ranging businesses, including news, finance, automotive, insurance, retail and more. She has surrounded herself with seasoned specialists who deliver coveted placements at the most efficient costs in newspaper media options.

A tireless advocate for the enduring power of newspapers in today’s evolving media landscape, Kim has led ITM Newspaper Media Buying Services since its founding in 2017. The first executive hire for what began as an unprecedented, all–newspaper division of Innovative Travel Marketing, Kim helped shape its vision and growth—undeterred by industry skeptics wrongly predicting the decline of newsprint. Her leadership has proven that multi–channel newspaper advertising—spanning print, digital and mobile formats—remains powerfully effective for results–driven campaigns. Over the course of her 30–year career, Kim has negotiated billions of dollars of successful newspaper buys, reinforcing the credibility of print–based journalism and the exceptional trust she has earned from longstanding clients. She sets the gold standard for strategic research, audience targeting, and delivering unmatched rates and placements that drive market impact for every business category. Kim is widely recognized for her masterful negotiating, strategic insight, and unwavering commitment to client success. She continues to be the industry’s go–to authority and trusted conduit between advertisers and the newspaper sector and oversees her top–level team to provide every medium that supports their success. Kim holds an MBA in General Management from Dowling College.

This LA–based, veteran newspaper advertising sales specialist takes pride in customer service, attention to detail, and delivering value to his west coast clients. Jim leads business development efforts and has earned an excellent reputation for his strategic, client–focused approach to business development, helping advertisers and agencies navigate the newspaper advertising space with ease and effectiveness. Known for his responsiveness, client service, sharp attention to detail, and ability to secure optimal placements at competitive rates, Jim is a trusted partner for businesses seeking measurable results through print and digital newspaper advertising. His commitment to value and relationship–building makes him a key player in ITM’s continued success.

With more than 25 years’ experience in the advertising industry, this dynamic operations leader and strategic media planner draws on expertise in multi–platform print—including digital, mobile, and national newspaper inserts—to craft media plans that deliver value and results. Amy has cultivated trusted relationships throughout the newspaper media world and worked with top agencies and premier brands throughout her career. The native New Yorker now calls New Jersey home where she lives with her family, and holds an MBA in Marketing from Fairleigh Dickinson University. She is a fan of reading, hiking, kickboxing, watching basketball and spending time with loved ones.

Michelle Walsh is an experienced media planner and buyer who customizes inspired campaigns utilizing print, digital, broadcast and out-of-home advertising. A key force in ITM’s exclusive team of media strategists, Michelle manages all aspects of planning, negotiation, premium positioning and added-value. Her great attention to detail and transparency yield enthusiastic relationships among clients and media companies alike, and her commitment to optimize every media budget — whether cash, trade or both — earn ITM a track record of tremendous client loyalty.

A skilled media strategist with 15 years of experience in the advertising industry, Geri specializes in planning and executing high–impact, multi–channel campaigns across print and digital platforms. At ITM Newspaper Media Buying Services, she helps brands optimize their media investments to amplify reach and engagement, and ultimately drive meaningful, measurable results. Geri is known for her collaborative style, data–driven insights and ability to consistently deliver campaigns that exceed expectations. Outside of work, she enjoys spending time with her family and traveling.

With a career spanning 25 years in advertising and print, Kathleen brings a deep well of industry knowledge and leadership to ITM Newspaper Media Buying Services. Her mentor–style leadership has shaped high–performing teams, delivering standout, flawlessly executed print and digital campaigns for national and local advertisers. Known for her precision and commitment to excellence, Kathleen has been a trusted partner to agencies, clients, and creatives alike, bridging creative, operational and strategic functions with ease. Her roots in newspaper production and adaptability in a constantly evolving media landscape have made her an invaluable asset. She holds a Bachelor of Arts from Sarah Lawrence College.

Rebecca has been a driving force in newspaper advertising since 2008, managing hundreds of accounts for regional, local, and national clients. With deep experience in print and digital, she coordinates seamlessly with media agencies, vendors and publications to ensure campaigns are smoothly executed and perform to their highest potential. Rebecca’s strength lies in her ability to juggle multiple moving parts with precision—ensuring creative materials, resources and information are always on point and on time. Her dedication and work ethic set the tone for dependable client service and campaign success.

With more than a decade of industry experience, Emily is known for her meticulous attention to detail and hands–on approach to campaign execution. As Media Supervisor, she works closely with agencies and newspapers to deliver seamless print and digital campaigns. Emily brings excellent organizational skills and a steadfast work ethic to every project, making her a reliable partner and trusted resource. She values building meaningful relationships and takes pride in contributing to the clients’ success.

Christopher brings over ten years of operations experience to his vital, behind–the– scenes role, making sure every campaign runs smoothly and according to plan, backed by the data and documentation clients need. His dedication, accuracy and responsiveness have earned him strong relationships with media vendors. Chris plays a key role in managing print and digital proof of performance, streamlining timely post–campaign reporting and efficient billing. He holds an Associate Degree in Business Administration and Management from Essex County College.

This experienced advertising professional brings a strong background in print and media operations to her role as Media Traffic Coordinator. Thriving at the intersection of speed, precision and creativity, she has a passion for fast–paced, collaborative environments where attention to detail and relationship–building are not only essential, but go hand in hand. Dorene is always eager to streamline processes, embrace new technologies and find innovative ways to enhance performance. Dorene keeps specs in line so the big picture hits its mark. Her proactive approach and deep commitment to client success make her an integral part of the ITM Newspaper Media Buying Services team.