Communications Director-LA Sparks

Job Function: Essential Duties and Responsibilities:

* Develop and execute strategies for year round positive media coverage for team, management, and overall business initiatives
* Facilitate and manage all media relations and communications needs of all Sparks personnel
* Manage preparation and oversight for Sparks press conferences including messaging, scripts for spokespersons, on-site logistics, and post-conference coverage
* Prepare all communications documents related to announcement and/or breaking news, including press releases, talking points, fan and partner communications
* Provide daily support for Sparks coaches and players including attending all team games and practices
* Manage game day PR including player and coach access, injury reports, media seating chart, media meals, credentials
* Manage media access to all team personnel
* Work closely with Community Relations Manager and support team and WNBA initiatives.
* Prepare spokespersons as needed on a wide range of issues; serve as organization spokesperson as designated
* Develop a crisis communications plan and manage execution of communications strategies in response to potential crises
* Work closely with broadcast partners to drive positive coverage and to increase exposure
* Maintain daily and weekly communication with WNBA communications department and support League media and community programs
* Develop and strengthen relationships with sports and non-sports reporters and editors
* Develop and manage execution of department business plan and operating budget
* Recruit, hire and supervise PR support staff which may include full-time staff, part-time staff, game night staff and interns
* Manage production of all Sparks publications including media guide, annual Yearbook and game day roster
* To provide website game information as well as work with Marketing and Community Relations Staff to provide other content as needed.
* Travel with team as required to away games including pre-season, regular season and playoffs

Qualifications and Requirements:

* 5+ years of public relations and/or communications experience
* NBA/WNBA/Collegiate experience preferred. Community Relations experience a plus.
* Solid record of developing and managing strategic communications strategies and garnering media coverage
* Proven relationship building skills; positive and outgoing personality
* Strong and diverse writing skills (AP writing style and feature writing)
* Experience managing staff
* Available to work evenings and weekends, occasionally on short notice
* Bachelor's degree required.
* This is a full-time, exempt position reporting to the President. Full LA Sparks employee benefits package.

You can apply here:
http://nbateamjobs.teamworkonline.com/teamwork/jobs/jobs.cfm/Communications?supcat=166#31874