The Opportunity

The Memphis Grizzlies organization has a role and responsibility to actively partner in building strong communities across the mid-South region. Through the work of our Community Engagement team, we leverage the power of sports to address important social issues in education, service and health and fitness.

The Community Engagement Director will be responsible for developing and implementing strategies to maximize the community impact of NBA initiatives while aligning player investment to our organizational CSR goals. This role will also oversee our corporate partner program strategy.

The position reports to the Vice President, Community Engagement and is part of the collaborative partnership between the Community Engagement team, the Grizzlies Foundation, and peer departments across the Grizzlies organization.

In This Role You Will

• Direct the day-to-day activities and responsibilities of the CE department; oversee responsibilities for internal business needs.
• Aid in the creation of a comprehensive communications plan promoting the organizations’ Community Engagement mission.
• Serve as a Memphis Grizzlies liaison at community events.
• Amplify team and league-wide campaigns through local fan base and our corporate and community partners.
• Develop internal CR strategy to support core pillars of education, health & fitness and service; support all Stand Together (Social Advocacy) initiatives inclusive of, but not limited to Grizz Shop Local, CommUNITY conversations and MLK Celebration week.
• Oversee CR programs related to corporate partner agreements while tracking progress from ideation through fulfillment.
• Submit advance and after-action reports on all programs for tracking and evaluation.
• Facilitate Team Autograph Sessions
• Plan and execute special fan engagement experiences.
• Develop, manage and maintain relationships with non-profits and community partners.
• Research and stay up to date on best practices and trends within CSR as well as identify areas of opportunity.
• Ensure all community events and information are updated and posted in a timely manner on web, social and the TeamUp calendar accurately.
• Develop and approve department-related budgets.
• Apply change, risk and resource management principles when needed.
• Input all player appearances into the NBA PATS portal.
• Knowledge of driving data for reporting and storytelling.
• Ensure all internal and external audiences are kept apprised of project updates through newsletters, mailings, and other strategies for direct communications.
• Work collaboratively across teams and functions to effectively promote the Grizzlies team programs, values, and behaviors, and to deliver on business goals.
• Other duties as assigned by the Vice President, Community Engagement.

The Experience You Will Bring

• Bachelor’s degree from a four-year college or university in Communications, Sports Management, Philanthropy or related field.
• A minimum of 7 years of professional sports team experience, non-profit, volunteer engagement, communications or combination of the above.
• A minimum of 4 years managing a team.
• High degree of personal and professional accountability.
• Ability to plan and work independently, demonstrating a high degree of initiative, follow-through, and project completion.
• Superior time management skills and an ability to produce high quality work involving analysis, problem-solving, organization, and writing skills.
• High level of integrity and emotional intelligence.
• Knowledge of issues and best practices related to youth development, education reform, community development.
• Must be comfortable speaking in public.
• Ability to work evenings, weekends, and holidays as needed.
• Valid driver’s license

Nice to Have:

• Ability to adapt to change in the work environment, while directing competing demands.
• Thorough understanding of basketball and a passion for the sport.
• Prior experience within corporate social responsibility, community relations, philanthropy, cause-marketing, nonprofit management.
• Prior experience working in a school or other field focused on student curriculum and advancement.
• Digital, social media, and traditional marketing knowledge

What We Offer

At the Memphis Grizzlies, we strive to support our team members through all stages of life with robust and attractive benefits, financial and wellness options and great perks. In addition to offering a competitive salary, we have other great benefits and perks.

Keeping You Healthy

• Industry leading health coverage
• Short and Long-term disability
• Team Member and Dependent Life Insurance
• Group Voluntary Benefits
• Wellness programs through EAP and Headspace

Discounts and Perks

• Matching 401(k)
• Employee Assistance Program
• Tuition Reimbursement
• Team Store Discounts
• Happy Hours and other fun activities
• Qualified parking and game night meals
• NBA Sponsored Discount Programs
• Employee Referral Bonuses
• Employee Recognition Programs

Taking Time Off

• Generous Paid Time Off
• Holiday Pay
• Paid Parental Leave

Memphis Basketball LLC is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to treating all applicants and team members fairly based on their abilities, achievements and experience without regard to race, national origin, sex, age, disability, veteran status, sexual orientation, gender identity or any other classification protected by law.