Assistant Director, Athletics Communication - 1032368-6689 Job at Illinois Staff

Assistant Director, Athletics Communication Division

The Division of Intercollegiate Athletics (DIA) invites applications for Assistant Director, Athletics Communication to support marketing. In addition, the Assistant Director, Athletics Communication will play a critical role in supporting the broader strategic priorities of the DIA, and ultimately this position will help foster a life-changing experience for student-athletes.

Since 1892, DIA has operated on the campus of the University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign to support its intercollegiate athletic programs. Today, DIA supports 21 intercollegiate varsity sports which compete as a part of the Big Ten Conference and the National Collegiate Athletic Association. DIA provides the resources for over 500 student-athletes to participate at the highest levels of their respective sports. This extensive support ecosystem includes over 35 departments employing over 300 dedicated staff members including 80 plus varsity coaches working collaboratively to provide individualized championship-caliber opportunities to our student-athletes, in the classroom, in the competitive arena, and in personal and professional development, to enhance their growth and life preparation.

The DIA mission is to Unify, Develop, Inspire, and Achieve, for the benefit of our student-athletes, our university, and our broader community. DIA has set forth six strategic priorities to help guide and advance its overarching mission: Championship people, championship mindset; strategic innovation and investment; athletic success; financial sustainability; win championships; community engagement and enrichment. Together, these priorities present a cohesive vision for the direction of the department.

Organizational Relationship

This position will report to the Associate Athletic Director, Media Relations

Job Summary

Assist in coverage of nationally-ranked Illinois football program, and lead and execute all communications and social media strategies while coordinating media coverage for the Illini softball, women's golf and swim & dive programs. For a complete list of duties and responsibilities, Click here

Impact in Your First Year

Within 3 months, you will:

• Develop a strong understanding of Illinois Athletics' communication strategies, brand voice, and media relations protocols.

Within 6 months, you will:

• Develop and execute media strategies to enhance the visibility of student-athletes and programs.

By the end of the first year, you will:

• Lead initiatives, innovate, and drive communication strategies forward.

Specialty Factors

Bachelor's degree in journalism, sports communications, sports marketing, sports management, public relations, communications, English, or a related field. Two (2) years (24 months) of professional experience working in the athletic communications/sports information field. Demonstrated experience serving as the communications contact for a team and/or managing social media accounts.

Preferred Qualifications:

• Extensive knowledge and interest in sports; extensive computer/software knowledge and graphics arts skills; Proficiency in desktop publishing software applications such as Adobe InDesign and Creative Suite; Proficiency in social media management and content production, scheduling and planning; Proficiency with statistical programs such as NCAA Live Stats (Genius) and Stat Crew; Familiarity with content management systems such as Sidearm and project management systems such as Basecamp.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

Maintain knowledge of, and compliance with, specific NCAA, Big Ten Conference, and institution rules that relate to this position is required. Superior interpersonal skills, attention to detail, and ability to meet deadlines; Mastery of grammar, punctuation, and spelling; a high-degree of error-free clear, effective writing. Working knowledge of AP style guidelines; Ability to work collaboratively in a diverse and team-based environment; Must be able to work evenings and weekends.

Championship Mindset and Expectations Understands and displays professionalism and integrity that builds and maintains trust between student-athletes and fellow DIA staff; Prioritizes and contributes to the life changing student-athlete experience; Adheres to University, DIA, Big Ten, and NCAA rules and regulations; Commitment to the Athletics Department and University's mission and values; Flexible to various scheduling to include nights, weekend work and some holidays, team travel; and Maintain professional competency and skills required for professional practice.

Appointment Information: This is a 100% full-time Civil Service 5005 - Athletic Communications Associate position, appointed on a 12-month basis. The expected start