Senior Director, Communications

Overview

The Senior Director, Communications manages and executes public relations activities for Major League Soccer and Soccer United Marketing. The Senior Director works within the sports communications group, advises MLS executives on communications strategy, supports functional areas of MLS and SUM, serves as a spokesperson to the media and works closely with all MLS clubs on communications strategy. 

Responsibilities

• Strategic communications professional who shapes public perception of the organization while upholding its values and integrity.
• Develop communications strategies and messaging for MLS Sporting and Competition initiatives.
• Lead a team that accomplishes proactive publicity via the following:
  • Develop proactive communications strategies.
  • Create and pitch feature ideas and content.
  • Cultivate strong relationships with media outlets, editorial decision makers, and content creators.
• Lead strategic planning for key MLS tentpole events, including MLS All-Star and MLS Cup.
• Accomplish team results by communicating job expectations and managing the Performance Management process.
• Steer consistent and successful messaging throughout all communications, digital and marketing platforms.
• Support league executives with interview preparation and strategic messaging.
• Oversee and participate in live monitoring of MLS games and related internal and external communications.
• Oversee expansion of Feature Ideas and Talking Points documents to support proactive outreach to sports media.
• Oversee a team that delivers information and assets through a fully-integrated Media Resources page.

Additional Responsibilities

• Miscellaneous departmental duties.
• Additional responsibilities as assigned.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s Degree in public relations, marketing, sports administration or related field
• 10+ years of experience

Required Skills

• Strong interpersonal and presentation skills
• Familiarity with current patterns and trends in digital and social media
• Outstanding written and verbal communication skills
• Ability to work in a fast-paced media environment and make quick decisions using sound judgment
• Extensive national media contacts and demonstrated ability to place stories
• Ability to establish effective working relationships with a variety of media (such as newspapers, TV, radio, social media, etc.)
• Ability to manage people/projects, delegate responsibility and provide follow-through on multiple projects
• Ability to anticipate problems and identify opportunities to build/protect the MLS brand
• Ability to think strategically, creatively, and in an effective manner while managing multiple issues and projects
• Knowledge and passion for Major League Soccer
• Superior organization, project management skills and attention to detail
• High level of commitment to quality work product and organizational ethics, integrity and compliance
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook
• Demonstrated decision making and problem-solving skills
• Detail-oriented with the ability to multi-task and meet deadlines with minimal supervision
• Ability to travel and to work non-traditional hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays

Desired Skills:

• Previous knowledge and experience in the sports industry
• Knowledge of the sport of soccer

Total Rewards

Major League Soccer offers a competitive starting base salary of $145,000 - $185,000, based on individual qualifications, market financials, and operational business needs. We are committed to providing a Total Rewards package that attracts, supports, engages, and retains talent. Our benefits package includes comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage, a $500 wellness reimbursement, and generous Holiday and PTO schedule to promote work-life balance. We also prioritize career and professional development, offering on-the-job training, feedback, and ongoing educational opportunities.

We believe in the power of in-person collaboration to fuel creativity, strengthen connections, and cultivate a vibrant workplace. As a result, employees are required to work from an MLS office at least four days a week. We understand the value of balance, so employees also have the flexibility of working remotely on Fridays, along with the option to take up to two additional remote flex days each month.

At Major League Soccer, we are proud to be an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and inclusion and believe that a diverse workforce enhances our ability to compete in the marketplace. We are committed to providing equal employment opportunities to all individuals regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, pregnancy, age, national origin, disability status, genetic information, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

We are dedicated to ensuring that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation throughout the job application or interview process, essential job functions, and other benefits and privileges of employment. If you require accommodation, please contact us to request it.

Join our team and be part of the Major League Soccer family, where we elevate the game and inspire greatness!