The BIG EAST Conference seeks outstanding applicants for the position of Senior Associate Commissioner, Media Relations and Strategic Communications. Based in New York City, this position is primarily responsible for planning and implementing the Conference’s media and communications activities relating to the conference’s 22 sports, with a particular emphasis on Men’s Basketball, as well as leading the strategic communications efforts of the conference. This is a hybrid position with the expectation of being in the New York City office a minimum of 2-3 days per week.  Travel to competitions, meetings, and industry events is also required.

POSITION SUMMARY

• Serve as the primary media relations contact for BIG EAST Men’s Basketball and select Olympic sports.
• Develop, manage, and execute conference-wide strategic communications and public relations strategies that advance the objectives of the conference.
• Serve as the media operations coordinator for the BIG EAST men’s basketball tournament at Madison Square Garden.
• Coordinate on-site media relations operations for basketball media day.
• Develop and manage relationships with both external and internal constituents to effectively promote the conference across various communications and multimedia platforms.
• Coordinate pre-season polls and all-conference teams, as well as all-conference selection and recognition.  Handle player/performer of the week awards for select sports.
• Write, design, and edit various conference announcements, releases, features, media guides, etc.
• Coordinate on-site media relations operations and related responsibilities at designated Olympic sport championships.
• Effectively lead a staff of 3 communications professionals.
• Collaborate with social and digital media team to identify and develop engaging/compelling content for various digital platforms (social media outlets, digital network, etc.).
• Collaborate with key partners (Fox Sports, NBC/Peacock, Turner Sports, Madison Square Garden, etc.) to increase the conference’s exposure, educate broadcast teams, and advance the conference’s key messages.   
• Serve as an effective spokesperson and ambassador for the conference.

QUALIFICATIONS

• Minimum of 10 years of related experience in Division I intercollegiate athletics or similar environment, with direct experience in the sport of basketball.
• Demonstrated ability to manage all aspects of a high-profile communications and media relations department.
• Experience leading strategic communications efforts for organizations, including non-athletic initiatives and crisis management.
• Excellent writing and editing skills.
• Digital content creation and strategy experience.
• Outstanding organizational skills, with the ability to manage multiple projects at a given time.
• Strong work ethic and problem-solving abilities.
• Proven ability to develop creative and impactful public relations/communications campaigns.
• Exhibit strong skills as a collaborator and relationship builder. 
• Ability to positively represent the BIG EAST Conference, as necessary.