Director, Communications – MLS
Major League Soccer

The Director, Communications manages and drives public relations activities for Major League Soccer and Soccer United Marketing. The Director leads all aspects of communications on MLS Competition, MLS Player Engagement, and MLS Safety and Operations matters. The individual in this role also creates and drives strategic communications plans, supports functional areas of MLS and SUM, and works closely with MLS clubs on communications strategy.

Responsibilities

Primary Responsibilities 

• Strategic writer and editor who shapes public perception of the organization while upholding its values and integrity 
• Generate earned media coverage through the use of:
  • Creative feature ideas 
  • Engagement with media outlets and editorial decision makers 
• Writing and editing duties to include, but not limited to: feature idea pitches, press releases, reference materials, executive speeches, quote drafts, select internal and external written communications, presentation decks, and multimedia projects. 
• Serve as a Communications liaison to the following groups: MLS Competition, MLS Player Engagement, MLS Security, and MLS Operations. 
• Serve as MLS Communications liaison to the Eastern Conference MLS clubs 
• Respond to media inquiries in a timely manner, providing background information, facilitating interviews and serving as a company spokesperson on select topics as necessary 
• Live monitoring of MLS games and related internal and external communications 
• Support League executives with interview preparation, message points, and strategic messaging 
• Manage editorial relationships with select national media partners 
• Work closely with MLS clubs to support their communications strategies 
• Manage Communications relationship with pertinent media associations 
• Accomplish team results by communicating job expectations and managing the Performance Management process:
  • Plan, monitor, and review performance; 
  • Coach and counsel employees; 
• Develop and implement department procedures and productivity standards and reinforce Company policies 
• Serve as the supervisor and mentor for the Sr. Coordinator, Communications 
• Developing personal growth opportunities for employees 

Additional Responsibilities

• Build and foster collaborative relationships within MLS Communications and other departments within the organization to stay informed and informed of new initiatives, program and other organization wide events 
• Attend industry events and trade conferences to remain current with industry changes 
• Additional responsibilities as assigned 

QualificationsEducation and Experience

• Bachelor’s Degree in public relations, marketing, sports administration or related field 
• 8+ years of proven experience in public relations\communications, or marketing 

Required Skills

• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to effectively communicate, both verbally and in writing 
• High-level of commitment to a quality work product and organizational ethics, integrity and compliance 
• Ability to manage people/projects, delegate responsibility and provide follow-through on multiple projects 
• Ability to think strategically and creatively to effectively manage projects 
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple projects 
• Detail-oriented with the ability to deliver professional work. 
• Ability to work effectively in a fast-paced environment to meet deadlines with minimal supervision. 
• Demonstrated decision making and problem-solving skills using sound judgment 
• Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook 
• Proficiency in social media platforms 
• Ability to travel and to work non-traditional hours, including evenings, weekends, and holidays 

Desired Skills:

• Knowledge of the sport of soccer 

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