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CJ Close is a dynamic sales and marketing executive with expertise in media, advertising, and the travel and hospitality industries. From 2019 to 2025, they served as the Executive Director of Brand Partnerships at Afar Media, where they cultivated strong relationships with key stakeholders to create innovative marketing solutions. Prior to that, from 1996 to 2013, CJ was the West Coast Director for Condé Nast Traveler, Vogue, and Glamour, recognized as a top performer and Sales Person of the Year. Currently, CJ is the Director of Content & Media Partnerships at Matador Network, working with destinations and brands to share their unique stories. They hold a BA in Journalism from Butler University.