Director, Athletic Communications and Creative Services

PAY GRADE: 30E

CONTEXT OF THE JOB:

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.