Director of Athletic Communications

Role Summary

Vincennes University (VU) is seeking a dynamic, self-motivated, and highly organized Director of Athletic Communications to lead and manage all aspects of sports information, media relations, and digital communication for Trailblazer Athletics. The Director will spearhead Vincennes University athletics communications across 12 intercollegiate sports and associated campus partners. As primary media liaison and storyteller, the Director will amplify student-athletes, coaches, and the Trailblazer brand—through strategic media relations, digital storytelling, live game coverage, publication production, and internal coordination.

Responsibilities

• Media Relations & Storytelling
  • Function as the visible, responsive voice of Trailblazer Athletics to media and the public, developing and maintaining relationships with media and external partners to promote the visibility of VU Athletics programs and expand the VU Athletics brand
  • Write and disseminate regular press releases, feature stories, statistical summaries, and media advisories
  • Serve as primary contact for media requests, coordinate press events and photo/video opportunities, and manage additional press logistics
  • Equitably promote the diverse range of VU student-athletes, Trailblazers teams, coaches, staff and athletic alumni, showcasing their achievements both within the athletics arena and beyond
• Digital & Broadcast Content
  • Oversee updates and accuracy of the athletics website (govutrailblazers.com), ensuring rosters, schedules, stats, archives, and multimedia are current
  • Manage all department social media channels; create and execute content calendars featuring graphics, video highlights, athlete spotlights, game updates, and recruitment promotions
  • Provide or schedule photography/videography at VU Athletics, University and postseason events
  • Collaborate with BlazerVision Coordinator on video production for live streams, highlight packages, interviews, and game-day broadcast operations
• Game-Day & Statistical Operations
  • Travel with multiple teams to provide in-game updates, statistical reporting, live social content, public address coordination, and highlight/story collection
  • Train, supervise, and schedule statistical tables/staff for game coverage—ensure clean data input, monitor NJCAA live stats tools, and submit post-game data to league and opposing teams
  • Coordinate scoring, livestream timing, halftime programming, in-game promotional announcements, and officiating of game-day audio/visual systems
• Publications & Design
  • Lead the production and editorial oversight of all publications: media guides, roster cards, game programs, schedule posters, and digital brochures
  • Utilize Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop) for graphic design and layout, ensuring brand compliance and visual consistency
  • Coordinate photography and video capture; maintain an organized archive of athletic media, and manage all digital and print media records
• Team & Departmental Leadership
  • Oversee and develop a team of student assistants—assign workflows, establish deadlines, and provide performance feedback
  • Prepare and manage the athletics communications budget, including travel, publishing, media equipment, and event costs
  • Coordinate and manage special events such as media days and press conferences
  • Collaborate cross-functionally with External Relations, Advancement, cheer, and fan-experience teams to finalize media assets for banquets, campaigns, marketing strategies, and special events, while also assisting in organizing and hosting athletic banquets, national championship celebrations, and other special occasions.
• Archives, Compliance, & Records
  • Maintain comprehensive historical records, season statistics, and memorabilia for archival and compliance
  • Ensure all digital platforms, stats systems, and publications are style-compliant and meet NJCAA reporting standards, working with coaches and Director of Athletics to ensure accurate information and updates

Your Qualifications

Essential

• Bachelor’s degree in Communications, Journalism, Sports Management, or related field OR an equivalent combination of education and experience
• Sports information, athletic communications, media relations, or related experience—preferably at the collegiate level
• Valid driver’s license, ability to travel frequently and work nights/weekends/holidays

Supplemental Skills / Experience

• Master’s Degree preferred
• Demonstrated excellence in writing, editing, and oral communications
• Proficient in Adobe Creative Suite (InDesign, Photoshop), MS Office, website CMS editing, email marketing, and social media platforms
• Experience operating sports statistic software and managing statistical crews
• Photography/video production skills, including editing and live-broadcast coordination
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, ability to multi-task, and thrive during high-volume events
• Demonstrated ability in digital marketing, fan engagement, and strategic content planning

If you don't have the exact skill set but are excited by innovation, different perspectives, and unique ways of thinking, we welcome you to apply!

Our Benefits

• Medical, dental, & vision insurance
• Flexible spending accounts
• Disability and life insurance
• Excellent holiday and time off benefits
• Life Assistance Program (LAP)
• Retirement savings options
• Educational support benefit
• Membership & discount offers

Physical Demands and Work Environment

Reasonable accommodations may be made to enable individuals with disabilities to perform essential functions which might include but are not limited to remaining stationary for long periods, occasional movement throughout the department, and occasional transport of objects weighing less than 10 pounds. This position requires the ability to observe and analyze details at close range and communicate to exchange accurate information with others.

Interested applicants should submit a Vincennes University application, cover letter, resume/cv, writing samples/portfolio (graphics, releases, media guides, digital content), and full contact information for three professional references.

Vincennes University (VU) is a premier learning institution widely recognized for its leadership in innovation and the delivery of successful educational experiences. VU develops people and enhances communities through accessible, high-quality academic programs, strategic partnerships, and active engagement.

Vincennes University is an accredited, equal opportunity / affirmative action employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, ethnicity, national origin, marital status, religion, sex, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, disability, age, or veteran status. As required by Title IX of the Education Amendments of 1972 Vincennes University does not discriminate on the basis of sex, including sexual harassment, in its educational programs and activities, including employment and admissions. Questions specific to Title IX may be referred to the College's Title IX Coordinator or to the US Department of Education Office of Civil Rights.