Sr. Director of Communications

The 3-time WNBA Champions Los Angeles Sparks are looking for an experienced Sr. Director of Communications to join their team! This position will be responsible for the development and execution of a comprehensive communications strategy for business and basketball operations. They will manage the day-to-day operations of the Communications Department and ensure the execution of organizational communications, publicity and media operations, and publicity resulting in maximizing exposure of the franchise.This position will have a deep understanding of each media outlet (both local and national) and external opportunity for coverage, in addition to how to develop and execute team and business narratives resulting in increased earned media presence. An essential part of the Marketing and Communications Department, this position will nurture relationships with media, key executives and internal staff with the responsibility of developing and executing strategic communications plans that will amplify organizational business goals. This position reports to the Vice President of Marketing & Communications.PRINCIPAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES:General Job dutiesDevelop and execute strategic communications, publicity, corporate communications, media operations plan that is in alignment with organizational goalsEffectively lead and manage Communications Department Staff to seamless execution of required department dutiesResponsible for press releases, media advisories, talking points, FAQs and factsheets - plus additional copywriting as requestedIn collaboration with members of the department - Development of publicity campaigns supporting player and coach awards, All Star balloting, end of season awards, Olympics etc.Ensure Communications team alignment with player agent contacts providing all required memos and communications, keeping GM and VP Marketing & Comms included in all communicationsDevelop a database of media outlets and individuals to target for stories that amplify franchise business and basketball objectives from traditional sports and nontraditional media outletsWork closely with WNBA on communications strategy and ensure compliance with all team and league policiesCollaborate with internal departments on amplification and promotion of partnerships and internal initiativesServe as public relations liaison on Alumni Relations/Future legends committee - developing and pitching storylines around affiliated alumniCorporate CommunicationsArrange and secure speaking engagements for executives - providing comprehensive list of conferences that would contribute to brand amplification, sales opportunities and organizational liftManage executive appearances, provide talking points and applicable information as neededSecure national and local coverage of major franchise happeningsDevelop a crisis communications checklist and process, then execute in partnership with leadership according to plan, as necessaryWork closely with corporate partners and agencies on announcement of new sponsorships. Securing industry publications stories that will amplify partnerships locally and nationallyLead creation of PR alliance amongst local Los Angeles Sports teams - developing opportunities for mutually beneficial public relations tie ins that amplify the Sparks brandDevelop community storylines and secure coverage of initiatives and outreach, amplifying Community initiatives, gaining media coverage.Game Day Media Oversee Communications staff to seamless execution of gameday media execution: media credential process, media gameday operations, press box operations, pre- and post-game communicationsTravel with team (as requested) to manage gameday duties on the roadOversee staff in the creation and execution of gameday materials as requestedKNOWLEDGE, SKILLS, AND ABILITIES:Ability to think critically; research, recommend and implement solutions effectivelyOutstanding organizational skills, ability to follow through, and capable of meeting deadlines while balancing multiple projects and prioritiesAbility to communicate clearly to internal and external stakeholdersPossess and demonstrates an extremely strong proficiency in communication skills, both written and verbal with consistent attention to detail. Comfortable and experienced with public speaking and group presentationsExcellent judgment and ability to develop, leverage and maintain relationships based on experienceExperience launching an entity, team or initiatives that resulted in local and national media coverage. Ability to create groundbreaking ceremonies, develop strategy and executeServe as public relations liaison on Alumni Relations/Future legends committee - developing and pitching storylines around affiliated alumniStrong contacts with media including sports, culture, food and fashion and ability to secure stories in any of these areasMINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:Bachelor's degree in communications, Journalism or equivalent education and experience preferredMinimum 7 years of PR/communications experience, storytelling, project management, and leadership experience in sports/entertainment or other high-profile industryMinimum 4+ years of people management experienceKnowledge of current and emerging communications trends with ability to influence conversations based on knowledge and expertiseDeep understanding of the game of basketball and the team including game day events, statistics and other updatesAbility to garner non tradition media attention and storiesAbility to speak effectively to media, crowds or as requested as franchise representativeCERTIFICATION, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS:Proof of eligibility to work in the United StatesExcellent written, verbal communication and interpersonal skillsAbility to maintain confidentiality of sensitive informationAbility to work in a fast-paced environmentAbility to communicate in English, in both written and oral formWORKING CONDITIONS:Ability to work flexible hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays as requiredMust be willing to travel and work effectively while on the road with the teamMust be willing to relocate to Los Angeles, CaliforniaCompensation commensurate with experience; minimum starting salary $135,000This job description in no way states or implies that these are the only duties to be performed by the employee in this position. It is not intended to give all the details or a step-by-step account of the way each procedure or task is performed. The incumbent is expected to perform other duties necessary for the effective operation of the department.We are an equal opportunity employer, and you will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.We will ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform critical job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment. Please contact us to request accommodation.

Created: 2025-01-14