Director of Communications and Engagement

We are making it real every day. Our students don’t only learn; they complete internships, volunteer in the community, graduate and get good jobs. Our faculty members don’t only teach; they collaborate across disciplines and conduct research that impacts lives and human health around the world.

The person in this position will set and guide the strategy for all external communications, as well as take the lead in connecting with key stakeholders and constituents for the Center for Sport Leadership at VCU. This position will be the primary liaison to professionals in the sport industry. He or she will teach courses for the CSL, with the remaining responsibilities falling under two main themes: *Strategic Communications* and *Industry/Alumni Engagement.*

**Teaching (20%)** * Teach two graduate level courses per calendar year. * Advise on campus and distance learning master’s students. * Demonstrate excellence in teaching. **Strategic Communications (40%)** * Develop, implement, and evaluate CSL’s annual communication plan. * Lead the generation of online content to be delivered through website and social media platforms. * Enhance the CSL’s local, national, and international reputation. * Facilitate CSL communication and collaborative decision making. * Establish strong media contacts locally and nationally, and maximize media opportunities for CSL faculty and events. * Manage the CSL brand, promoting VCU and the School of Education. **Industry and Alumni Engagement (40%)** * Build, enhance, and maintain effective collaboration with CSL faculty, staff, students, and alumni that ensure successful program development and outreach. * Secure high-level sport industry leaders as guest speakers for on-campus and online courses. * Engage CSL alumni in a variety of ways. * Coordinate and execute fundraising strategy for the CSL. * Remain active as a professional in the field of sport, advising the CSL on trends that should impact courses and programming.

* Master’s degree in sport administration or equivalent degree in a related field required. * 8-10 years professional experience in the sport industry; at least 3 years professional experience in media, public relations, or communications related fields; demonstrated high level communication skills with diverse constituents; professional speaking & writing experience. * Demonstrated experience working in and fostering a diverse faculty, staff, and student environment or commitment to do so as a faculty member at VCU. * Demonstrated evidence of engagement in and understanding of the current sport industry. * Strong personal connections in the sport industry (locally, nationally, globally). * Master’s level teaching experience, preferably on campus and online. * Experience working with students in an advisory capacity. * Sales and/or fundraising experience.