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AEG

Director of Communications & PR

AEG, Scottsdale, AZ


The Director of Communications and PR is currently an exempt, full-time position reporting to the Chief Marketing Officer. The primary responsibilities of the role are to provide leadership and oversight for USA Pickleball's internal and external communications, national PR efforts, and social media. This role will have a significant focus on the growth of corporate communications relationships on a national level, social media brand awareness, and membership growth.
Key Responsibilities
  • Buildout and implementation of annual communications strategy, setting and supporting the overall department objectives and brand identity through cohesive organizational messaging.
  • Manage media strategy around corporate PR, including national story pitches and placements.
  • Develop relationships with industry-specific and nationwide media to enhance organizational presence.
  • Management of organizational and event-specific crisis communications strategy.
  • Plan, write, and distribute consistent messaging including pitches, press releases, and media advisories. Maintain, grow, and diversify authentic media lists and influencer relationships.
  • Serve as the day-to-day contact with media outlets, as well as the primary liaison with communications personnel (contractors and vendors) and strategic partners.
  • Proactively pitch and secure placement of media coverage for the organization and the sport within mainstream and endemic outlets to shape the organization narrative based on goals and strategies, in addition to handling incoming requests.
  • Provide editorial oversight, ensuring accuracy and brand consistency in all communications.
  • Manage email communications strategy with a strong focus on the customer journey and membership engagement.
  • Oversee the evolution for the voice for each social media channels in innovative and engaging ways, while remaining consistent with brand vision and professionalism.
  • Oversee social media manager and work collaboratively to grow and build our presence within the pickleball community through engaging content.
  • Drive editorial content and design for official website - usapickleball.org. Collaborate with contractors on site features and functionalities (e.g., section/page build projects, blog content/human interest stories), and ensure fresh content daily.
  • Collaborate with the Membership team to ensure communication strategies address member needs and enhance their experience.
  • Work closely with agency of record on national growth campaigns and identifying national story opportunities to positively impact membership growth and retention.

Qualifications
  • Bachelor's degree in journalism, communications, public relations, business, or related field.
  • 5-7 years of experience in corporate communications, public relations, or sports media relations
  • Strong copywriting, editing, and proofreading skills
  • Experience with email marketing platforms (e.g. Mailchimp, constant contact)
  • Familiarity with CRM systems
  • Ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously and meet tight deadlines
  • Team-oriented with excellent communication and collaboration skills
  • Sports experience a plus


Competitive salary commensurate with experience, plus full benefits package including 401(k) and opportunities for professional development within a growing organization.

We are an equal opportunity employer and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, color, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, age, disability, gender identity, marital or veteran status, or any other protected class.

Job Questions:
  1. What are your salary expectations?
  2. How familiar are you with the sport of pickleball? Please provide details that describe your level of play or knowledge of the sport?