Director, Athletic Communications and Creative Services

University of Delaware; Newark (NJ); On-site; USD 50,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

An established industry player in higher education is seeking a dynamic Director of Athletic Communications and Creative Services. This role focuses on developing innovative content that engages fans and promotes athletic events. You will lead creative strategies, manage a talented team, and collaborate with various departments to enhance the university's brand. This position is perfect for someone passionate about storytelling and sports, eager to make a significant impact in a vibrant community. Join a forward-thinking organization that values creativity and excellence in all its endeavors.

Qualifications

• 4+ years of experience in creative content and communications.
• Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite and digital content strategies.
• Experience managing interns and coordinating projects.

Responsibilities

• Develop creative content for sports to enhance brand recognition.
• Manage game coverage and coordinate with external relations.
• Compile reports on brand events and assess creative strategies.

Skills

Creative Content Development

Social Media Management

Graphic Design

Project Coordination

Data Analysis

Communication Skills

Education

Bachelor's Degree in Graphic Design

Bachelor's Degree in Journalism

Bachelor's Degree in Communications

Tools

Adobe Creative Suite

Stat Crew

NCAA Live Stats

Microsoft Office Suite

Job description

Director, Athletic Communications and Creative Services

Apply now Job no: 501929
College / VP Area: Athletics & Recreation Svcs
Work type: Staff
Location: Newark
Categories: Athletics, Full Time

The Director, Athletics Communications & Creative Services/Communications Specialist II at the University of Delaware is a valued member within the University and Department of Athletics, Community and Campus Recreation (DACCR), upholding and embracing the department mission of Achieving Excellence Together. The purpose of the Creative Services Team is to connect and inspire the Delaware Athletics community through creative content and experiences with a focus on a deep understanding of the University of Delaware brand and its traditions. Under the general direction of the Associate Athletic Director, Communications, Creative Services and Multimedia, the Director, Athletics Communications & Creative Services/Communications Specialist II will be responsible for the day-to-day operations in the areas of creative strategy, idea, and revenue generation. Directly managing creative content to enhance the University of Delaware and its Athletic Department, which reach recruits, students, student-athletes, alumni, and fans, among others. Tasks include developing unique and original content and coordinating creative campaigns across the department to drive traffic and support DACCR mission. This position will work together with the graphic design, marketing, and video teams, as well as the university communications and marketing team to enhance the department and greater University through creative services and storytelling. With a focus on amplifying the creative content, the Director, Athletics Communications & Creative Services/Communications Specialist II will also coordinate with the External Relations team for the planning, content implementation, distribution and reporting of major events and milestones for assigned teams. This individual will be able to assist creatively and proactively ideate story angles and features in collaboration with the External Relations team. All members of the External Relations team commit to exemplifying the values of DACCR.

MAJOR RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Develop unique and original creative content for assigned sports to increase brand recognition, highlight student-athletes and coaches, improve value perception, drive ticket sales, engage fans, and promote external events.
• Develop and create content, such as social media, highlights, and releases for the creative content calendar, along with collaborating with other units on the External Relations team to create unique media, copy and content for external outlets.
• Evolve DACCR voice for each creative piece in a way that is innovative and engaging, while remaining consistent with the brands vision and Delaware standards.
• Manage the day-to-day coverage of assigned varsity sports that will be determined based upon team make up across all applicable platforms, including in-game.
• Direct game coverage for assigned sports and assist as needed in game and special event coverage for additional sports as needed.
• Facilitate and own all sport-related coverage for assigned sport teams, including creative, digital, social, written, and other emerging content mediums.
• Compile reports on major brand moments/events and advise on best practices and future opportunities from those insights. Continuously assess creative strategies and apply industry practices while staying up to date on industry trends and ensuring that Delaware remains at the forefront of the creative services landscape.
• Uses data and searchable analytics to strategically think about content, platforms, audiences, time, and user experience.
• Proactively maintains knowledge of current trends in the social media, design, production, development, and communication fields.
• This includes the following: Participating in peer networking opportunities Participating in professional education opportunities Monitoring trade publications and websites Oversee student intern(s) and be an active participant in fostering learning and development by delegating to interns and staff.
• Support the recruiting and identification of student interns for each sport season. Coordinates multiple projects around tight deadlines.
• Perform miscellaneous job-related duties as assigned.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• Bachelors degree and four years of related experience, or equivalent combination of education and experience. Degree in Graphic Design, Journalism, Communications, Marketing, Sports Management or Multimedia preferred.
• Familiarity working with a variety of multimedia platforms, as well as other digital creation and distribution tools.
• Experience executing digital content and creative strategies to align with audience behaviors, goals, and key messages to drive audience engagement.
• Experience managing, coordinating, and motivating interns, volunteers and/or students. Ability to handle multiple projects simultaneously.
• Ability to work well under tight deadlines.
• Skill in the use of personal computers and related software applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and the Google Drive suite.
• Knowledge of Adobe Creative Suite software, specifically Photoshop, InDesign, Premiere Pro, and After Effects.
• Knowledge of Stat Crew and NCAA Live Stats Ability to work effectively, manage expectations and interact with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community.
• Knowledge of NCAA rules and regulations.
• Demonstrated understanding and consideration of the differing needs and concerns of individuals with varying identities, cultures, and backgrounds.
• Committed to fostering a workplace culture of belonging, where diversity is celebrated, and equity is a core value.

SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS:

• Ability to travel is required for this role. Must be able to work weekends, holidays, and evenings.

Notice of Non-Discrimination, Equal Opportunity and Affirmative Action
The University of Delaware does not discriminate against any person on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, gender identity or expression, sexual orientation, genetic information, marital status, disability, religion, age, veteran status or any other characteristic protected by applicable law in its employment, educational programs and activities, admissions policies, and scholarship and loan programs as required by Title IX of the Educational Amendments of 1972, the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990, Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act of 1973, Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964, and other applicable statutes and University policies. The University of Delaware also prohibits unlawful harassment including sexual harassment and sexual violence.