Director of Sports Communication

Director of Sports Communication

SUNY New Paltz invites applications for the position of Director of Sports Communication, a highly visible leadership role responsible for shaping and elevating the narrative of Hawks Athletics. This position serves as the department's chief communications strategist and storyteller, leading efforts to enhance the visibility, reputation, and brand of the institution's intercollegiate athletics programs. In alignment with NCAA Division III philosophy, the Director will highlight the holistic student-athlete experience, with an emphasis on academic success, competitive excellence, and community engagement. The Director of Sports Communication oversees all facets of athletics communications including media relations, digital strategy, website management, social media, live event coverage, and branding—while also maintaining a hands-on presence in game-day operations, including live statistics and event coverage. As a member of the department's senior staff, the Director plays a key role in strategic planning, decision-making, and advancing departmental priorities. This position reports to the Director of Athletics, Wellness, & Recreation.
Key Responsibilities:
Strategic Communications & Brand Leadership
Media Relations & Storytelling
Digital Strategy & Content Development
Game-Day Operations & Live Coverage (Hands-On)
Supervision & Staff Development
Event Operations & Championship Support
Compliance & Institutional Alignment
Qualifications - Required:
Bachelor's degree in communications, journalism, public relations, sports management, or related field
Demonstrated experience in athletic communications, media relations, or digital content strategy
Exceptional writing, editing, and storytelling skills
Experience managing athletics websites, social media platforms, and live event coverage
Demonstrated ability to manage and execute live game-day responsibilities, including statistics and event coverage
Proficiency with athletics communication tools (e.g., CMS platforms, StatCrew, NCAA LiveStats, PrestoSports, Adobe Creative Suite, video editing tools)
Willingness to work evenings, weekends, and travel as required
Preferred:
Master's degree in a related field
Experience in intercollegiate athletics, preferably at the NCAA Division III level
Supervisory experience
Strong understanding of Division III philosophy and the student-athlete experience
Other important information about this vacancy:
This position offers full New York State benefits which are among the most comprehensive in the country; see them here: https://www.suny.edu/benefits/benefit-summaries/. The State University of New York at New Paltz is a highly selective, public University that is recognized regionally for the strength of its academic programs. It is located in the beautiful Hudson River Valley with easy access to New York City and other nearby recreational and cultural amenities. SUNY New Paltz recognizes the unique skills, perspective, talents and passion that each employee contributes to its learning community. To work here is to accept an invitation to participate in the growth and development of all campus members—students, faculty and staff. The University's commitment to inclusive excellence is an important part of our mission of public education and our culture. New Paltz continues to work on building a community that supports freedom, mutual respect, and civility. We seek others who support these values of diversity and inclusiveness and candidates of all diverse backgrounds who wish to participate in our cultural aspirations are welcome and encouraged to apply. All people with disabilities are encouraged to apply. The State University of New York at New Paltz is an AA/EOE/ADA employer. Federal law and regulations require notice to all prospective employees regarding crimes that have occurred on campus in the current three year period. Please refer to the University Police Web site for the complete Annual Security Report (Clery Report) at SUNY New Paltz | University Police | Annual Security and Fire Safety Reports.